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Exercise

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Original poster

starting running

9 replies

SuperFlyHigh · 19/05/2015 13:21

I'd like to start running round my local park every day. How should I do this? I'm not a bad runner - should I start off slowly, faster, walk inbetween? tips please.

thanks

OP posts:

MorrisZapp · 19/05/2015 13:27

There are loads of apps, books etc that will tell you how to start running. In my experience though they don't account for your own level of fitness and ability when you start.

I'd say as long as you have proper running shoes bought from a specialist shop (and a decent bra) then just get out and run.

Best to start slowly to avoid injury but there's no point taking lots of walking breaks if you don't need them.

You say you're not a bad runner, are you a beginner or a returner?

sadlovedgirl · 19/05/2015 13:29

Hi I've done this by downloading the NHS couch 2 5k podcasts getting myself a good pair of trainers and a decent sports bra!

if you've already done them try googling Parkrun, they do a timed 5k run every Saturday morning, it's free and very friendly!

NameChange30 · 19/05/2015 13:29

Use good quality running shoes, and make sure you stretch properly before and after running. It might feel silly if you're not running fast or far, but it's just as easy to get injured as a beginner.

bikeandrun · 19/05/2015 13:38

Good tips in general but never stretch before running, good way of injuring unwarmed up muscles.

Original poster

SuperFlyHigh · 19/05/2015 13:41

Morris - I used to run with my old neighbour who was a proper runner - eg Croydon Harriers and did hurdling etc... I am surprised I managed to keep up with her but if I did slow down I just let her go ahead... However when I say did this was about a year ago so I'm probably out of condition and she's moved since then!

I've got the decent trainers (new!) and a decent sports bra too!

I will try to download NHS Couch 2 5K too and also stretch.

And my final 'thing' I think is a proper carrier for water as I do tend to need/want that whilst I run. or is that daft?

OP posts:

Original poster

SuperFlyHigh · 19/05/2015 13:42

Morris that's the thing - with the apps etc they don't take into account your fitness or ability and that's what confuses/frustrates me.

OP posts:

NameChange30 · 19/05/2015 13:44

Good point bikeandrun, I do know you should warm up first, just cba to add that bit!

Re water I just got one of those bottles for running that has a hole in the middle so it's easy to carry. £2.50 from Sports Direct

BlueChampagne · 19/05/2015 16:38

You probably won't need a water bottle for shorter distances when you're starting, unless it's a very warm day.

MrsMook · 19/05/2015 21:28

I like C25k. It works from quite a low base, so you could skip a few weeks if you were finding it easy. At the point I started, I had a 6 month old and had finally stopped limping after SPD. Walking uphill had me panting from months of being sedentary and a phase on crutches. I'd say that was fairly "couch" as a starting point.

I second decently fitted trainers from a specialist, and a good bra.

I don't take water out for under an hour unless it's particularly warm. I use a hand held bottle then. On a longer run, I have a belt with bottles. It's better to hydrate a couple of hours in advance. Drinking too much while running gives me stitches.

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