Starting running... need some advise

[crazy about cars]

As part of my New Year's resolution, I am wanting to do more exercise. A bit of a background beforehand, due to work and family demands I can say that I've been a little bit unfit over the years. I am around 175cm tall and weigh around 76KGs at the moment. I won't say I am unfit but I seriously lack exercise.

I am thinking of starting by getting back into running. I used to like jogging in my yoof and I think its a great (and free :P) way to start before I am sure I can commit to a gym membership.

My question is, after googling it seems that there's quite a few steps involved to really get started. According to this : http://running.about.com/od/getstartedwithrunning/... there's a 8 week plan just to get started?

Is that all necessary? I am thinking of a good stretch + warm up, brisk jogging for 5-10 min and then slow run for around 1 mile for first few weeks. This will change depending on how my body cope.
Is that ok?

Also regarding shoes I've just bought a decent comfy mid range NIKE running shoes. I didn't actually go to a specialist and all that.

My aim is just to get fit, shed some weight especially round my tummy and generally have fun while doing it. Doctors have also said exercise is good for depression which I have.

Any comments?

[DKL]

Huge running thread in the sports section. They'll help

[Ki3r]

Not sure about trainers really, maybe if you really get into it, I've got some cheap Nike ones that I've had for about 4 years, still going strong (maybe I don't use them enough...).

Have a look at Couch to 5k, its over 8 weeks I think, gets you built up for a 5k run/job, heard good things about it.