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Original poster

Can an unfit, overweight, soon to be 35yo learn to run?

80 replies

BrightYellowStripes · 24/07/2017 15:25

So, prompted by my half life crisis thread, I've decided I'd like to challenge myself and see if I can learn to run a 5k.

I'm asthmatic, a few stones overwight, uncoordinated and was always last to be picked at school Grin

Is it possible to emerge in six months as a lithe, toned, fit and energetic runner? Or should I think again Grin

OP posts:
Hercules12 · 24/07/2017 21:36

Revolution - well, I'm only in week 2 but if running 10 hours a week means I lose weight then I can aim for that! At least I enjoy running...

Isadora2007 · 24/07/2017 21:29

8 mins first run!?!?

Fantastic!!!!

revolution909 · 24/07/2017 21:24

I think exercise can make a difference, but you'd have to train a lot. I would say at least 10 hrs a week

Hercules12 · 24/07/2017 19:54

Thanks, totaldiva. I've spent my life yoyo dieting and had enough. Enjoy running and got up to 5k a few years ago. Can't maintain diet though. I think you're right about not focusing on the diet.

totaldiva · 24/07/2017 19:52

I run 5k Hercules and I'm still overweight. I feel a lot fitter and surprisingly I do feel a bit slimmer even though the scales haven't really shifted.

I'm trying not to focus on weight, I e spent my entire life on a diet so im trying to run as often as I can.

I hope that in time the weight will shift a bit. Like a previous poster I'm also breastfeeding so am hoping my body is holding on to back up reserves!Wink

Hercules12 · 24/07/2017 19:07

Hi. Can i ask what happens when you're overweight and running 5k? I am a good 3 stone overweight, 43, and on week 2. I realise you can't put run a bad diet but when I get to running 5k regularly (hopefully) will I be any slimmer? Or is it really about eating a lot less and feeling fit is the bonus of running.

Girty999 · 24/07/2017 19:03

You can do it, get down to a parkrun you can walk, run or cartwheel round it's great and free, they have tail walkers so no one is last, if you have kids under 14 do a junior with them it's only 2k x

totaldiva · 24/07/2017 18:50

Well done! Grin

I am significantly overweight but I love running, I did the C25K and now regularly run 5k - very slowly!!!

I agree with the good shoes and good bra comments. I have a shock absorber and I went to a specialist running shop to get fitted for great running shoes, I was scared of hurting my knees.

Spottytop1 · 24/07/2017 18:42

The couch to 5k app is great and really helps you ease into it. Starting with 5 min walk walk up, 60 seconds jog then 90 seconds walk repeated for 20 min then cool down.

I've just started it and I'm doing better than I ever expected I would!

Sirzy · 24/07/2017 18:38

Fantastic!

Original poster
BrightYellowStripes · 24/07/2017 18:37

Ahem Blush

Can an unfit, overweight, soon to be 35yo learn to run?
OP posts:
BikeRunSki · 24/07/2017 17:31

Park definitely!!!

BikeRunSki · 24/07/2017 17:20

Yes
Decent shoes
Decent bra
NHS Couch to 5K

AuntieStella · 24/07/2017 17:09

If you want music, but want to hear what's around you there are two solutions.

One is to put only one earbud in.

The other is to get some bone-conducting headphones. Main brand is Aftershokz. I'm thinking of treating myself (as my hints about what I'd really like for my birthday failed dismally)

EmpressOfTheSpartacusOceans · 24/07/2017 17:03

Absolutely you can! It's a lot more fun outside. I use earphones but quiet enough that I can hear what's going on.

revolution909 · 24/07/2017 16:59

I'm a roadrunner (never on a treadmill) , never used an app/training program but use GPS enabled fitbit to give me an idea of my distance. I'm always listening to my tunes on my earphones :)

Original poster
BrightYellowStripes · 24/07/2017 16:58

Will also look into Park walk Run Grin

OP posts:
Sirzy · 24/07/2017 16:57

I think that's personal choice. To me road over treadmill anytime!

Original poster
BrightYellowStripes · 24/07/2017 16:57

Also, is one app better than another?

OP posts:
Original poster
BrightYellowStripes · 24/07/2017 16:57

This is so encouraging!!

Would you recommend starting out on a treadmill or on the road? I do like to listen to music so wonder how safe I'd feel on the road or in a park...??

OP posts:
revolution909 · 24/07/2017 16:48

Of course you can! I was 4st overweight and a total couch potato!! In 4 months I did couch to HM. I've fallen in love with running and now I'm also super toned ;)

mustresistwine · 24/07/2017 16:45

A lot of running clubs do a 'learn to run' type course once or twice a year... mine does & some of the people I encouraged at the beginning now run a lot further & faster than me! One of them just did her first marathon (Berlin) age 60. Running is very inclusive, cheap & easy to fit into your life Smile

anotherdayanothersquabble · 24/07/2017 16:11

Get some running buddies. I ran with a group of friends training for a 10k, starting with run / walk round a 2km lake. We use an app called runtastic and most of the people who started dos a 10k, 10 weeks later. I was gobsmacked!! Most of the women (8 started, two have dropped out due to other commitments and 2 have joined) are still running three times a week and significantly fitter. Set one goal at a time and go for it. Good luck!

trevortrevorslattery · 24/07/2017 16:10

Definitely definitely!! Our local running club has a walking group which meets 3 times a week which is a pre-CouchTo5k group to get people in the habit of going out to exercise before they even start running. If you're in the NE of England they could be near you.

Also our local parkrun has a tail walker (not tail runner) which shows how inclusive it is for "non-runners".. not sure if this is the same for all parkruns but I assume it is.

Enjoy Smile

lumpit · 24/07/2017 15:59

Yes!!! C25K, a good sports bra (shock absorber is a good brand to look at!) and some good shoes if possible, and you'll be set Smile

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