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Original poster

How long before I should try a Park run?

30 replies

PopcornFiend · 29/06/2023 14:47

Hi

So I am 40, overweight (5ft4, 12 stone, size 14) and incredibly unfit.

I have decided to try and start running, and for the last 4 days I have set myself the goal of running outside for 10 minutes each day. Sounds pathetic I know, but honestly I am so unfit and my legs are aching like crazy from this unfamiliar exercise!

I’m determined to keep this up and gradually extend my runs as my stamina improves (and the legs get used to it!)

I do have proper trainers, and I know not to extend my runs by too much too soon.

I’m interested in trying to work towards doing my local Park Run. Realistically, how long do you think it will take me to get to a point where I can do this run - bearing in mind I have started this week just 10 min run a day - and it’s slow going!!

Also.. I am trying to eat carefully and reduce alcohol too - am I likely to start losing weight with the running?

Thanks!

OP posts:
randomsabreuse · 29/06/2023 15:00

Don't run every day. Walk every day but have at least one day off between runs.

If you can walk 5k you can do parkrun. Just jog a bit then walk the rest.

Try to run slower when you run then you can run for more time. The fitter you are the easier it is to vary your pace!

Good luck and enjoy

KirstenBlest · 29/06/2023 14:56

You might lose weight, but you will definitely tone up your legs and abs.

Other than trainers, get a proper sports bra, something like Shock Absorber. They're usually a bit tighter than normal bras and your bosom won't jiggle.

Don't worry too much about clothes - t-shirt and leggings/short leggings are ok, but give it a few months when you'll be running 10K and half-marathons get something breathable.

OakleyStreetisnotinChelsea · 29/06/2023 14:54

Have you considered the couch to 5km? There are lots of versions but the department of health one is free. It does work well and gives you structure to build up running through doing running "efforts" interspersed with walking. This works better than just trying to run for longer each time, the effort, recovery, effort pushes your body and helps get you fitter until you suddenly find that you are able to run longer distances. As a rough guide that gets you running for 30min continuous in about 10 weeks. For many 30 min will work out as 5km though obviously that isn't an exact science.

Zampa · 29/06/2023 14:51

It all depends on your confidence. You could start now and run/walk or build up over a couple of months. The Couch to 5K programme is 8 or 9 weeks so that could give you a guide.

Park Runs are so friendly so don't worry about being slow. I'm very slow ...

You will lose weight from exercising, providing you don't eat more to compensate (always my downfall) and remember that muscle weighs more than fat!

Sirzy · 29/06/2023 14:49

As soon as you feel you can walk the 5k, build it up over time to run more and more