Marathoner/ former NCAA xc and track athlete here..

IMO, running is all about your goals and your mindset. Some people like to run for time and others for distance. Pick one, and set some goals for it. Maybe you want to be able to run a sub-9 minute mile or a sub-40 minute 5k. Or, maybe you'd like to be able to run 15 miles a week. Then, seek out a training plan. I keep it simple, running 4-ish days a week and upping my weekly mileage by 1 or 2 until I hit my goal.

Figure out how you run best. Music? Treadmill? Sidewalks and streets, or trails? Morning or evening. Try out different combinations. You're more likely to stick with it if you enjoy it and you don't have to move your life around too much to fit it in.

If you like running with people, try to find a running group. There's groups for all speeds and different goals.

Don't overthink the gear. Make sure you're warm or cool enough, not cutting off circulation, and protected from the sun. I do advise getting fitted for running shoes from a running store (though it can cost a bit more than picking up a pair at a sports retailer). Your legs will thank you later.

Ice, ibuprofen or aleve, and stretch. You will feel sore, so even on days yo

I'll cut myself off now, but feel free to PM me if you have questions. I