More and more Americans are heading to the streets, tracks and parks to take up the exercise sport of running. But before you lace up those athletic shoes, are you physically ready to become a runner? Let’s examine some specific questions you might need to ask yourself, as published in Health magazine.

In terms of stamina, can you walk two miles in 32 minutes or less? If you answered no then you need to gradually build up your endurance by walking 15 to 20 minutes at least three or four times a week. Add five minutes a week until you reach 45 to 60 minutes per session. Increase your speed until you can walk a mile in 15 minutes or less.

When it comes to flexibility try this stretching technique. Lie down flat on the floor, with your legs out straight. Place a towel under your left thigh and try to pull your left leg up in the air to 90 degrees, without moving your right leg or hip off the floor. If you can’t do this, be sure to fully stretch your hips, calves, thighs, chest and back before running or walking.

For strength, try holding the plank position (or the up part of the push-up position) for three sets of 30 seconds each. This will help give you a strong core and arms to help support your legs. To help you achieve this, add one or two sets of 30 crunches, plus various leg curls, calf raises and lunges to help build core muscle strength.

Once you get your body moving with these strength-building and flexibility exercises, you will be hitting the pavement sooner and be better prepared for your next running session.