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I have. Actually, that was the major problem I had with running until recently. This breaks the $100 rule but these shoes really made life easier for me: http://www.zappos.com/asics-gel-kayano-19-neon-green-lightni... Paired with some Dr. Scholl's sports gel inserts and a very slow rate of increase in distance and I was able to get to the 5K level. I always denounced expensive shoes as heavily marked up brand mongeri…
I also agree with spending decent chunks of change in shoes, beds, and anywhere else you spend a large portion of your time. I'm trying to get into some sort of physical shape, but running is challenging to get into for me.
I actually started getting in shape with the basic cardio routine from Power 90. It's really easy to do anywhere and does a pretty good job of working up a sweat. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000VEVVIA
Stick with it and hopefully you'll find something that works for you!