A non runner training for the great North run. Any tips?

[Loobieloo27]

Hi, just that really. Me and the dh have entered into the great North run and would like to start training but both of us aren't runners, fitness wise I'm not great so I need to build up I think.

Any tips? I've been out twice for a run/jog and went 2.8km in 22 minutes but I'm so achy the next day, thanks!

Follow a plan like the couch to 5k, and then when you are comfortable with that find a plan that takes you up to the race distance. There's loads of info on the net.

...and get some good supportive sports bras...

Downloaded couch to 5k thanks, and yes to sports bras too

Follow coach to 5k then a 5k to 10k or half marathon programme. Get a good sports bra and if you can afford it get gait analysis and good shoes if you can afford it.

I'm doing it for the first time too. I've been doing parkrun since Autumn and now trying to fit in another 5kish run once a week. Am going to enter a 10k in the spring sometime and gradually up the distance. Get decent shoes, I like bone conductor headphones but they're not essential. Some people, like my dp like tech and mapping and using apps to track their progress and aim for a set pace etc. I prefer just to run til I can't, walk a bit, run some more and see if I do better the next time. Are you based in the NE?

You need to run at least 3 times a week and build up to a 10K. Joinging a local running club did it for me

Best advice I ever got was SLOW DOWN, the first 20 mins barely more than walking. If you set off too quickly you just burn out. After 20 mins your breathing should be normal and you should be able to talk. After that its just a case of building muscle stamina

Following! I did couch ti 5k before the end of the year but have done nothing since 🙈🙈🙈

Gonna restart but do 2 runs a time!

Definitely aiming for 3 times a week, will research gait analysis as I've got mild scoliosis so feet are already a bit wonky, thanks!

I'm aching so much the day after where I'm hobbling around, will this ease as my muscles get used to this?

Yes, it will get easier. Do remember to stretch. Lots of stuff on YouTube if you're not sure what you're doing

Have you entered the ballot?
As if so all I can say is don’t get your hopes up for a place.
20 of us entered last year and only 2 got a ballot space.

Yes entered the ballot but I'm aware can do it through a charity if we don't get through?

Ok! So you have plenty time, and you're going to smash this.

First of all, couch to 5k. If you think you're going too slowly, slow down The aim is to keep going, not to be speedy. At the same time, start Parkrun. Go this Saturday for the first time - doesn't matter if you walk most of it; you're setting a PB you'll beat every week.

Once you're in the habit of running at least 3x a week, and easily doing 5k by April or so, you need to bridge to 10k by making your long runs that bit longer. You'll be up to 10k by June ish.

That gives you July and August to keep your 3-4 runs a week, but extend your longer run each time. By mid-late August you want to be running 11 miles on your long run. Then taper for 2-3 weeks before the big day.

You've got this, OP. Hope you enjoy it. It's a fantastic race and I too am hoping to be lucky in the ballot!

Just on the subject of the ballot, it's too late for this year but in the Autumn there's a short window when you can pay £60 for a membership which guarantees you a place for 3 years running. You still have to pay the entry fee but it only works out at £20 more per race.