Starting running again. Any tips or tricks?

I am an avid runner. I love running and try to get it in where I can. I am a bit heavy to be a runner. At about 200 I train strength also. But I shoot for 20 mile weeks.

First, running is unique to each person. Be cautious that some advice may not be relevant. I use a training app called Runtastic to record all the information of my runs. When you are running you really can't get an accurate picture of your run. After you are done you can look back at your pace and distance. You can see if you are pushing herself too much by a big drop at the end or not enough with increase of speed at the end.

To start it off you need to build your overall leg strength. The stair stepper is your best choice. If you are breathing hard you are doing it right. You will be strengthening your lungs and your legs. Stronger legs will mean you can push off harder and therefore increase strength. So far my best time on a two mile was 11:59 min while I was deployed last. I was really able to train and eat right.

1. Get good running shoes. Visiting a running shoe store is worth the extra investment. Ask yourself - which is cheaper? A new set of shoes or doctor visits for shinsplints or plantar fasciitis? Also be prepared to change running shoes about every 3-6 months.

2. Get a good set of waterproof running suit (eg. PT outer shell)

3. Get some good wicking t-shirts and compression shorts (eg UnderArmor)

4. If you're on post, running with earphones/earbuds is not authorized. However, if you're in the gym (whether on post or not), earphones/earbuds are fine. Since I live offpost, I run with my jams. Speaking of which...

5. Get some jams to run with. Personally, I prefer Def Leppard, AC/DC and REO Speedwagon. That implies getting an iPod (my favorite) or something that can take a similar beating. I would not recommend taking a phone, only because if you drop it and the screen breaks, you'll hate me for life.

I am very prone to shin splints. It's been a battle for me ever since I've joined the military. I think the shoes make the biggest difference when running. Someone suggested I try shoes from a company called Newton Running. They're expensive. The best way I can try to explain this shoe is.... It has a raised section just under the mid-forefoot section. When you run, this is the first part of the shoe to make contact with the ground. It will change your running form for the better. After running in two pairs of these, I definitely feel as though it's helped. I completed my first half marathon in these shoes and my legs/feet didn't hurt at all the next day. I run in a more traditional shoe now. Adidas make this shoes with boost technology. The soles are really springy and running is very comfortable in these shoes.

My method when running is to find a nice comfortable pace and then give it a constant 1% more effort. So I'm at my comfy pace but I still feel like I'm driving forward a bit.

Update: Thanks everyone for the great advice. I was able to incorporate some of the tips given here and in December completed my first 5K. I did a fun one, the Ugly Christmas Sweater Run around National Harbor. I had awesome friends who gave me encouragement and support and didn't let me do it alone! I'm tremendously proud of myself for achieving this!