Problems with running

[99spottysocks]

So I've been going to the gym for years, doings classes, weight training etc and incline walking on treadmill plus rowing for cardio.

I would like to start running but I feel so heavy if that makes sense. It's like I'm being weighed down and this usually stops me before I actually get out of breath.

Any tips? I'm not over weight.....
I am also finding it impossible to run without holding on too.

Hoping someone experienced will come along with some advice 😜

Start off with something like C25K?
Even if you are fit aerobiclally. your joints/tendons and running muscles are not used to it. C25k is gentle enough- especially in the early weeks - just don’t go too fast in the beginning- I got shin splints and had to take a break and start over. I was also gym/lifting fit at the time - I had just never done any running before.

I started out running from one lamp post to another! then walking to the next one. The trick is learning run slowly enough at first. And of course stretch afterwards.

When my limbs are feeling heavy like this while running, it's usually always because I'm dehydrated.

And echo other PPs, the couch25k approach is brilliant!

Get off the treadmill and run outside! If you must use the treadmill please don’t hold on - it’s actually dangerous. Learn how to jump your feet to the stable sides of the machine.

Maybe you need to think about your stride and your foot strike? When I started running as part of a metcon/hybrid training routine in COVID (couldn’t get to my gym for the really heavy weights) I had to adjust my foot strike to a front of the foot strike as I’d always tended to run with a heel strike. Thinking about toe first propels me more forward and it feels lighter. Springing forwards.

And I’d second those recommending Couch25K. You don’t run much at first and it’s wise - start slowly and build up. It’s OK to run slowly too!

Your legs will feel heavy... it's a well documented issue. Google Toxic 10.

Another advocate for C25K....but you MUST plod slowly. It's about building stamina and not speed. Speed will come later or in my case never, snails still overtake me

I went from being able to run for 20seconds only to a half marathon in a year. I suspect you have set off too fast.

The secret is to go slower and shorten your stride. My tips are to Concentrate on moving forward not upwards so less bounce. Try to ensure your feet land underneath your body not in front. Don't worry about feeling 'ploddy' or embarrassingly slow. Do c25k.