Will running make my thighs bigger?

Question
Hi Sara,

I am an African American woman.  I am interested in starting a running program, but I'm very concerned that in doing so, I will increase the inches in my legs and thighs.  I do this very easily.  I was working out for awhile a couple of years ago with aerobics, weights and lots of lunges. I lost weight, but I could never get smaller than a 7/8.  Since then, I cut it out with the weights and started doing pilates and power yoga.  I finally fit into a 6!  For a few months, I was even a 4.  I got lazy and quit working out, and wanted to try something new.  I have a very busy schedule and want to burn the most calories in the shorted amount of time, so I thought that running would do it (I had read somewhere that it had the highest calorie burn of all the exercise you can do).  But then I look at some of the other african american women runners and they all look really big in the leg area.  I don't want that to happen for me at all.  I've always had big thighs and I know you can't change your shape, I want them to be as thin and shaply as they can be.  Can you give me any advice?  Will they get bigger?  Also, what's the best way for me to start?  How long should it take for me to start seeing results? Does it really burn as many calories as people say? Can I do anything to make running painless?  Thanks in advance, I know this was REALLY long!

Answer
I highly reccommend running. It is the best way of keeping fit. It certainly won't make youre legs any bigger. The best way to start is by taking things slowly. Don't push yourself too far. It burns around 600 calories an hour which is great. The only way to make it painless is to eat propally. Make sure you eat lots of carbohydrates.
Have fun!!