I've just registered for a 10k...

[MsMarvel]

I have never ran before!

Ive been going to the gym and have got a lot fitter but I think i have a lot to do to improve my endurance for a long run rather than cardio based on HIIT.

Race is in October, is that enough time to train for this? What sort of time should a complete beginner be aiming for?

[lljkk]

I wouldn't worry about times, just worry about finishing. There are lots of plans online, couch to 10k type things, you could drop in about the "run 2k" point.

[glenthebattleostrich]

That's loads of time. Zen labs do a couch to 10k ap for free. It's 3 runs per week and even a fatty like me is coping well with it.

[CMOTDibbler]

Congratulations! Yes, plenty of time. Follow a structured c210k programme, and don't be tempted to jump in at a later week because you are going to the gym - you need to get all of your body used to the running impact to avoid injury

[MsMarvel]

Ive spoken to my PT about it and although we notmally focus on weights and resistance training but shes going to change focus a bit to build up stamina.

Also going to start running outside, going for my first ever run tomorrow!

[glenthebattleostrich]

How is it going op?

[BlueChampagne]

Yes, you've got plenty of time, though you may find that you start using some different muscles ... keep us posted!

[MsMarvel]

So yesterday I went on my first ever run outside!!

I tried using an app on my phone to measure what distance I did, but i dont think the GPS on my phone is acurate enough because my circular route around the park became a straight line down the middle...

So im thinking about getting a fitbit to monitor my runs, and track progress. Are they worth the money? Looking at the fitbit charge hr.

Ive also discovered that my gym leggings do not cut it for running, had issues with them falling down. Can anyone recommend good running leggings or should I just wear shorts?

[Sandyclaus]

Well done you!!

Get yourself some running tights or wear shorts - have a look at sports direct online and the ladies running clothes - lots of cheap running tights and tops on there by Karrimor. Once you've built up your distance - check out your local park run - free timed 5k every Satruday morning :)

[Sandyclaus]

Oh and for tracking your run - apps like Mapmyrun are free, good and pretty accurate. Can't comment on the Fitbit as i use a garmin instead but I'm sure other posters will be able to advise you

[QuestaVecchiaCasa]

I would echo the parkrun tip. It really makes it easy to focus on running as you get feedback as to how well you are doing each week. Once you can comfortably do 5k it really isn't too difficult to get up to 10k.

Good Luck!

[BlueChampagne]

Free apps will be fine. Trained up to HM with MapMyRun till it exceeded the scope of my ancient iphone3. Or the OS map ...

Good shoes and bra are the most important items.

[megletthesecond]

So have I. First one. I'll keep dipping in here .

I can do a serviceable parkrun and have managed an 11km run on my day off recently (sunny, good music on my phone, didn't need to rush back for anything) nothing official though. I'm a total lp so I can't run at weekends and will take the half arsed Eddie Izzard approach to training on the two days I don't work. There's also a chance I'll have to have a minor op and postpone anyway. Fingers crossed it'll pan out ok.

We can do this!

[Stellar67]

I am considering signing up for one in October. Just done 5k slowly. But the whole getting there was slow as I had a bad knee.
So I'd just downloaded a 10k improver plan and thought would glean some info from here.
I feel like I should go sign up now!

[AyeAmarok]

Congratulations! Great idea and yes it's plenty of time. You'll love it!

For running tights, you basically want them to be like a second skin, completely clung to you. Shorts are good for the warmer days in the summer, but October you might want leggings for your run, I mostly wear leggings in summer too, although I'm in Scotland!

[AyeAmarok]

I have a good Nike dri-fit pair of leggings (I think tights is their proper name, they're the ones that come to a few inches below your knee) that have a phone sized zipped pocket in the back on the bum - very handy.

[LisaMumsnet]

Well done MsMarvel you'll never look back! Don't worry about distance to begin with, just run for a set amount of time. Walk/running with a buddy really is the way forward here, as is parkrun, as the distance will be mapped out for you and you needn't worry about fiddly/expensive technology. The most important thing is to have fun - and plenty of rest days so your body can get fitter gradually without getting injured in the process. Have a fab summer of running!

[mssmithsona]

I surprisingly found that Primark do some good exercise stuff, including shorts/leggings with pockets on the bum for phones.
I totally agree that having good shoes is incredibly important. Is worth spending a bit of money on them.

You've motivated me to sign up for a run now! Time to get back out. Good luck!

[MsMarvel]

Got myself a pair of running leggings, that tie at the waist and its so much better!

Im managing to run around 3km in 25 minutes but struggling to get past that in terms of time running. I seem to hit a brick wall but i know I need to push past it.

Also had my first experience of guys shouting stuff at me while i was running. Had my headphones on so didnt hear what they said but it did actually really put me off.

I signed my dp up for the 10k as well so have him as my running buddy for some of the time but I do quite like running myself as well.

[BlueChampagne]

Consolidate on your 3k for a couple of weeks then gradually increase the distance. Speed will come with fitness. Don't be tempted to do too much too soon or you'll increase the risk of injury. I'm with you on enjoying running by myself, and exploring new routes.

[megletthesecond]

How are you getting on Msmarvel? I'm plodding on and trying to go for 2/3 40 min runs a week but no time to plan for a big improvement.

What I will do is get the dc's out for a 5/6 mile bike ride and I'll jog along with them. It's a bit stop and start but worked a few weeks ago.

[Greaterthanthesumoftheparts]

Hi OP

Sorry I seem to have missed it but when is your run? I can do a 5k but seem to have signed up to a 10k Strong Man Run in 5 weeks time!!!! I have decided to use our many Vitaparcours for training, a mix of trail running with activities built in. Tonight we did a 2.8 km run jog/stumble and hoping for a long slow 8-10 km flat run at the weekend. Keep us posted with your training.

[Greaterthanthesumoftheparts]

Sorry just seen October, you should be fine!