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Original poster

I have never run. I'm thinking of trying. I'm scared.

56 replies

LowLevelWhiiingeing · 08/11/2011 17:58

I am unfit and currently very sedentary. I suddenly have a lot of time on my hands whilst I'm looking for a job and inspired by Charlie Brooker's piece this week, I thought I might give it a go.

I've looked at the app he talks about and it starts off with 60 second bursts of running, but I don't think I could even manage that!

I'm worried that I'll just find it too hard/embarrassing...

Any advice gratefully received.

OP posts:
Original poster
LowLevelWhiiingeing · 08/11/2011 18:15

oh, and I'm not going to tell anyone. DP is working away so I'll go whilst the kids are at school and hopefully no one I know will see me Smile

OP posts:
Original poster
LowLevelWhiiingeing · 08/11/2011 18:09

yes, I confidently predict that I will feel like I'm dying at about 40 seconds, but I really want to feel more energetic and positive.

and not having a job at the moment, I'm just not getting tired enough to go to sleep at night!

I really hope it's addictive as I've always viewed running as something that other, more sporty people do.

Anyhoo, I've ordered some new joggers and stuff, made a playlist to listen to, and the first effort will be Thursday.

thanks for the encouraging words!

OP posts:
goodtimesarecoming · 08/11/2011 18:06

You will love it. Download a couch to 5k podcast, and before you know it you'll be running for 20 mins. I couldn't even run a minute when I stater either. Once you get into it, join a running club as its a lot easier to run with other people.

didldidi · 08/11/2011 18:05

I can get up to 3 minutes as not only a total novice runner but also very unfit. it has taken a couple of months though. Would second the running shoes and the podcasts.

ShowOfHands · 08/11/2011 18:01

It's hard at first, you will feel like your throat and chest are on fire. You will be horrified at how hard you find it. You'll think about giving up.

But if you stick with it, really quickly you'll find that you can do more and more. You'll find yourself fitter, healthier and with more energy. You'll look better. You'll even enjoy it.

Go to a decent independent shop and get fitted for running shoes. Absolutely the best thing you can do to help yourself. Post having dd I went from not being able to run 100 yards without sobbing to doing 10k runs with ease in about 4 months.

PrinceRogersNelson · 08/11/2011 18:01

I'm doing this. It is pretty easy. And the runs are so bitesize that it doesn't feel that bad.

And don't run. Jog. Slowly. You can do it.

But be warned it is addictive.

I have downloaded the NHS podcasts which are a good way of doing it. The woman talking to you is very encouraging.