Oh Gawd, going running for the first time in ages tomorrow morning with fit friends and starting to panic!

[FGM]

Any one got any positive messages before I find a rock to bury myself under?

(I am overweight, and not really fit)

If you haven't been running in ages, you really need to be able to go at a comfortable pace without over doing it.
Just let your friends know that you may need some breaks and they can go ahead without you if they want.
I'm going back to running tomorrow for the first time in about 8 months. I can't wait as I really do enjoy it.
Well done for making the decision to go.
Good luck and enjoy

Ok first bit of advice is, you will not be able to keep up if they are used to it and you are not so don't put too much pressure on yourself and don't feel disappointed either!

Try take big steps and make sure your breathing is right, set yourself targets, as you will feel like you want to keep stopping so what my dh does to me is say something like keep going to you get to the bla bla bla...

He goes running with me and he super fit but no one else would come and it is hard no lie, and I am no natural runner.But with time and patience you will get there.

Just make sure you have sensible running shoes too, and good luck :)

Good for you for making a start. I think the other comments on here are right, just don't push yourself and if you need a break, let the others go ahead.

My kids are little older now so I can escape for a run a little more frequently. I've got to say, running helps with the sanity. It blows away the cobwebs, gives you some 'me time', the fresh air is fantastic for making you feel good and best of all, it really helps to keep the weight down. Treat yourself to some nice running clothes (there are lots to choose from) and if you think you feel you look good, you'll more than likely stick at it.

Hi, good luck for today, hope it went well. I love running and I think it's one of those sports that if you keep at it, gives big rewards very quickly, even if you start at 2 mins jog, 2 mins walk, if you go out 3 times a week within 2-3 weeks it is perfectly probable that you'll be able to run for 20 mins without stopping.

I have found that once you can run for 10-15 mins, you don't really need to stop at all, if tired just jog along at a slower pace for a bit.

Would second the advice to get proper trainers fitted at a running shop but that's the only proper kit you need. I also think that if you find you do enjoy it, enter for a 10km race, as having a target helps motivation.

Most of all though, have a nice time x

Thanks everyone for the encouragement and advice. We were out for 25 mins with a mix of walking and slow running. First 5 mins ran without a stop- a major achievement for me! Myfriends were brilliant. They knew I,m not fit but want to be and there is a long term goal to run a group race in September.

I was exhausted on return though and my face was bright red. Couldn't speak. I,m determined to get fit and run half an hour without stop soon. Bogle- that,s so encouraging.

Mommy- have great shoes, Paula- will look forward to buying nice gear after first few outings.
Shaxx- let us know how your run goes tomorrow

Onwards and upwards... Ps anyone seen my apostrophies?

Well done FGM! Sounds great

My run was terrible
More walking than running, I think. I was in the park and it was lovely and sunny.
I made myself run to particular points so I had to push myself.
I felt so good afterwards though.
Hopefully the next one will be better.

It's hard when you have not been doing it for a while, you do lose fitness quite quickly unfortunately. I also returns fairly quickly if you run regularly.

I started running regularly a year and a bit ago, now I've just run 20 miles marathon training.

Well done for doing it op. Your friends sound lovely.

Shaxx- well done on getting out. It will get better and better. I am determined like never before. I WANT to do this- and well .

Doyou... wow- 20 miles in incredible- when is your marathon? May I ask how it was for you when you started? I've never been a runner (was a fat kid at school) but am so ready to take it on. And so grateful for my lovely friends who have sufficient faith in me