Super proud of myself (with questions)!!!

So, for the 3rd or 4th time, I attempted the couch 2 5k program. Each time, I couldn't get through the first 3 or 4 minutes of a run/walk cycle. I am very very out of shape and overweight. Today, for the first time, I finished the couch to 5k day one! I know this sounds silly for some of you who are avid runners but this is a big accomplishment for me NOT to give up! The first 3 times I ran the entire minute. The fourth and 5th I didn't run the entire minute but I ran atleast a half a minute and the 6th I ran the whole thing...Plus I walked extra ( I had to walk home LOL). I could have given up too...it was drizzling when I left, I wasn't really in the mood, and I am pmsing...but I didn't give up!
Anyways, on to my questions - Where do you buy your sneakers? I walk really bad - on the outsides of my feet. I have orthotics but I can't figure out how to get the pads out of my new sneakers so I didn't wear them, but I could definitely tell my legs were hurting b/c of the way I was running/walking.

Also, what do you take with you when you run? I am sure I will have more questions as this goes on! Thanks for letting me ramble :)

Re: Super proud of myself (with questions)!!!

Congrats on moving forward with the program.

You will want to go to a running store to have them look at your feet, arches, how you walk etc. They will recommend the types of shoes for your foot type. Runner's Edge in Farmingdale is fantastic. If you do not live near there, I hear Sayville Running Company and Super Runner's Shop (Huntington) are good. Just don't go to a regular sports store such as Foot Locker, you want a running store since the people who work there are runners themselves and know runners - and they can answer almost any question you have.

Don't compare yourself to others, you are doing great, and one day will be an avid runner! Good luck.