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Original poster

How to improve fitness when you are incredibly unfit

83 replies

pennypop3 · 20/02/2025 21:46

I'm so unfit. I tried to do some sit ups earlier and felt like throwing up. I think I managed 3.

I can't run. I'm 5'7 and 12 stone so a bit overweight but not massively so. I just don't exercise. I try to walk when I can but with kids and work it's not very often. Im pushing 40 and feel like if I don't try and improve things now it will just get harder and harder.

So where do I begin? Help!

OP posts:
farmlife2 · 20/02/2025 21:54

pennypop3 · 20/02/2025 21:53

I love to walk! I just don't get the chance. Going with the kids isnt great as my littlest is too big for the buggy but too small to walk fast/far.

Walk to the park. It's better than nothing. Play with the kids there, that's all activity. You'd be surprised how well kids can walk.

BIWI · 20/02/2025 21:53

Just start! But don't try to do too much - take it easy and build up.

C25K is a brilliant way to start running, even if you think you can't.

farmlife2 · 20/02/2025 21:53

I'm pretty fit and I would find sit ups hard. I also don't run. Start by walking. Slowly at first, short distances, and build up. Make sure it's something you'll enjoy, so you'll keep it up. If you've been sedentary a long time I think it's generally recommended to have a medical check up before starting any kind of exercise program.

Original poster
pennypop3 · 20/02/2025 21:53

I love to walk! I just don't get the chance. Going with the kids isnt great as my littlest is too big for the buggy but too small to walk fast/far.

OP posts:
user4578 · 20/02/2025 21:51

Couch to 5k is really good if you want to try running. There is an app you can download

ManchesterGirl2 · 20/02/2025 21:50

Tophelleborine · 20/02/2025 21:48

Find something you don't mind doing (you might not love it at first) and do it a little bit, as often as you can. Walking would be a good place to start - can you not do that with your kids?

Agree with this. If you find numbers motivating, measure how long/fast you can do it, and try to increase a little each week.

SkaneTos · 20/02/2025 21:50

Good advice from @Tophelleborine !

Walking whenever you can is a great start.

Tophelleborine · 20/02/2025 21:48

Find something you don't mind doing (you might not love it at first) and do it a little bit, as often as you can. Walking would be a good place to start - can you not do that with your kids?

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