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Original poster

Novice Runner- tips please?

19 replies

ButtonMoon88 · 01/10/2015 15:10

Hi all, I am very new to running, it has never been my exercise of choice but a family member of mine does it, and after a recent bereavement it seems like somethings positive to focus on. I have my hopes set on the great north run in Newcastle, sept 2016. It's a half marathon. I have googled how to start running and it seems the best advice is to run 3 times a week, but how long for and what kind of distance should I try to be covering? I'm a very poor runner, but I have a healthy BMI and although not my ideal weight, I'm in the normal range for my height. Any tips greatly received. Thank you!!

OP posts:
CMOTDibbler · 01/10/2015 15:15

If you google nhs couch to 5k then they have a plan that has everything detailed

RNBrie · 01/10/2015 15:17

Do you have a smartphone OP? If so, download the Half Marathon Trainer app by zen labs. I am in the middle of their couch to 10 k program and I think its really good. You aim for three runs a week, it starts you off very gently (walk one min, jog one min etc) and gradually builds you up. It runs in the background so you can play music at the same time as it's running and then it speaks to you over the top to tell you what to do next.

Curiouserandcuriouser30 · 01/10/2015 15:27

Definitely get a couch to 5k type app if you can, they are really helpful. Then just get out there and run! There will be some weeks when it doesn't go to plan, but the important thing is to keep at it. The feeling when you improve and run further and faster than you thought you could is addictive (in a good way!)

Original poster
ButtonMoon88 · 01/10/2015 15:44

Yes I have an old iPhone so will download that app, I did get one called runtracker but it keeps crashing! Angry
Thank you!

OP posts:
MrsMook · 02/10/2015 12:26

I used the C25k podcasts. They have (cheesy) music that's paced for the walks and runs which helps reduce burn out. You're talked through the programme, so no faffing with timers.

I did my first HM 364 days after my first C25k run, and I was in pretty dire condition following a baby.

Fuckitfay · 02/10/2015 12:32

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

lastqueenofscotland · 02/10/2015 13:26

Agree with the above one of the worst mistakes novice runners make is they head out at full pelt get knackered after less than a minute and it suddenly Feels unobtainable to do running.

C25k go slow and good shoes!

Original poster
ButtonMoon88 · 02/10/2015 14:12

Thank you- yes last weekend I went to sweatshop in Westfield London and I got myself some great running shoes.

I am happily running three times a week, which started off as 5 minute run, 2 min walk, 5 minute run, 2 minute walk, but yesterday I ran for 20mins straight before slowing down, so I'm happy. I'm off for a run tonight and hope to do the same, and then will fit a run in Sunday eve. I am really looking forward to each run, which is amazing for me! And I always feel great afterwards, sweaty, but good

OP posts:
Boredofthinkingofnewnames · 02/10/2015 14:15

Absolutely agree - start of with c25k and them move on - you need to be able to cover the distance so get the 5k and the move on.

Original poster
ButtonMoon88 · 02/10/2015 19:04

Managed 5k in 30mins, with one one minute walk, chuffed with that!

OP posts:
Curiouserandcuriouser30 · 02/10/2015 22:15

Well done! Smile

saltlakecity · 03/10/2015 09:19

The great north run is fab but don't be disappointed if you don't get in. It's heavily oversubscribed. There are lots of other great half marathons out there too.

Original poster
ButtonMoon88 · 03/10/2015 11:12

saltlake I'm just learning about this! In my ignorance I just thought that you sign up and you can all do it! My brother has done it once, a couple of years ago and he got a spot first time. I have already registered my interest so will get an email alert when it's open or entries.
I must admit I will be disappointed if I don't get a spot because I would be running it in memory of my dad and he is from Newcastle so it's a very special place to me and my family. Fingers crossed! Either way it gives me a good focus for me training and if I don't get in I will have to cross that bridge when I get to it!

OP posts:
Fuckitfay · 03/10/2015 11:46

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

Original poster
ButtonMoon88 · 03/10/2015 12:02

Well we will see...it would be fairer if they did it on a first come first serve basis surely? If not there is a local marathon to me so I will do that regardless, that's in May and I will have no issue getting a place to run that.

OP posts:
Fuckitfay · 03/10/2015 12:07

This reply has been deleted

Message withdrawn at poster's request.

Original poster
ButtonMoon88 · 03/10/2015 12:26

Is there a certain type of criteria they are looking for do you reckon, I.e running for a local charity, running in a quick time...so on

OP posts:
Fuckitfay · 03/10/2015 14:24

This reply has been deleted

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Toddlertoy · 11/03/2016 13:52

I work for a charity with places available. They have paid the entry fee, and ask that you raise a minimum of £200 on behalf of the charity. The charity is CICRA (Crohn’s in Childhood Research Association). Let me know if you’re interested. 

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