For those who run!

Jeanine J.
on 6/26/11 7:31 am
I am looking to start running. I was just wondering some tips from the veteran runners out there.

How far should I run?
Should I alternate walking/running to build up my stamina?
What should I do to prevent injuries?




What's worth the PRIZE is ALWAYS worth the FIGHT!                
FairRhonda
on 6/26/11 8:34 am - Durham, NC
 I'm still a new new newbie, but I'm a BIG fan of Couch 2 5K.  It's a nice ease-in to the process.  

    
HW - 300             SW - 289 (4/4/11)
CW - 251             GW - 175
Jeanine J.
on 6/26/11 8:38 am
This is something that I have to look into because I have been hearing it a lot here lately!

What's worth the PRIZE is ALWAYS worth the FIGHT!                
Stephanie M.
on 6/26/11 8:39 am - Los Angeles, CA
 Jeanine,
Running is definately a wonderful way to get in shape! A few years ago, I was pretty serious in running, and I started on a treadmill. I first set my goal for something achievible. Such as, the first week, I would jog 5 minutes straight on the treadmill, then walk the rest of a mile. Then the next week I would increase the speed while still just doing 5 minutes. Then each week I would alternate speed or duration. As long as your joints aren't hurting, I think you can run as far as you can. Don't be afraid to push yourself, because you can accomplish more than you would believe! Just make sure to pay attention to your body. You can do it! It's more about the mentality than anything!
Good luck and I hope this helps!
Steph 

TamaraL
on 6/26/11 8:40 am
definetly the couch25k.  Just google it.  Cool runnings has a schedule of how to do it



 

Jeanine J.
on 6/26/11 8:45 am
I just downloaded the Couch to 5K app. I think that this will be a good fit for me! I am super excited to start running!!! I have never thought that I would be able to run a 5K but that is my new goal!! I am motivated and ready!

What's worth the PRIZE is ALWAYS worth the FIGHT!                
robynlynnm
on 6/26/11 9:46 am - Westminster, MD
OMG you sound exactly like me.  I wanted to run as well and started with the Couch to 5K and then I did not like the treadmill so I did it outside.  Last night I ran 5K for the first time in my entire life.  I was totally thrilled.  I posted last night when I got finished doing it.  My post was "AWESOME DAY" or something close to that.  I have in my profile that running was a goal of mine.  I started the couch training two weeks before surgery while losing a few pounds pre op.  I then stopped for two weeks during recovery then picked back up and  have been training for 2 solid months.  I have a race planned for Sept. 2 and figured I would work up to it during these months.  Last night I completely shocked myself.  I got to two miles and just did some MAJOR positive self talk and talked myself right into running the last 1.2 miles.  So you can do it if you put your mind to it.  Good luck and can't wait to hear about your progress.
        
pamkb
on 6/26/11 9:56 am - Crestview, FL
I am also a fan of the C25k program.  I just completed week 7 and am loving how far I am have come.  When I started the program running 60 seconds followed by 90 seconds of walking seemed like a LIFETIME of running.  Now I can go out and run 25 minutes straight without walking.  Will be running my first 5k in July.

Be sure to stretch after, and to do some cross training on your non-run days (swim, eliptical, cycle, strength train). 

Good Luck!!

I am creating my own revolution and PAMdemonium reigns!

RNY 11/16/2010

SW 270, CW 155, GW 135

1st 5k time 40:34 (Dec 2013)

 

 

 

 

Celia S.
on 6/26/11 10:04 am - Grand Junction, CO
I am in my second week of C25K. Actually I am repeating week 1, but I'm still pre-op, weighing in at 364lbs and it's HARD for me to run that 60 seconds! It feels like a lifetime and I have to give myself pep talks for the final 2 running intervals!

I love the program, though, and feel so empowered every time I finish a workout :) I am completely amazed that I am jogging for any amount of time! Now I don't run very fast, but I'm doing it nonetheless! Best of luck to you in your running endeavors, I think you'll enjoy the C25K program as much as I do.

Paul C.
on 6/26/11 11:38 am - Cumming, GA
As you can see many people have success with the C25K program, but don't feel that if you can't do this program that you can't or won't ever be able to run.  I am a C25K failure.  I just couldn't keep up with the intervals, it may have had to do with the fact that I started 3 weeks after surgery and still tipping the scales in the 280+ range .  It is an awesome program though.

As for advice:

1) Shoes are critical my first piece of advice to anyone is to get fitted for shoes at a specialty running store. A good store with experienced staff will be able to get you in the proper shoe which will make the world of difference.  If they don't have you run on a treadmill or in the store you are at the wrong place.

2) Stetch BEFORE AND AFTER you run.  Many running injuries can be traced back to tight muscles.  Your muscles need to be loose before you run and then stretch as soon after you run as possible.  My total pre and post stretch routine is now 15-20 minutes depending on how I feel post run.

3) Don't be intimidated by others and how fast they can run or how far they can run.  There is a lot of physiology behind running that dictates how far or fast you can run.  As you run and become more efficient at it your body will adapt and start developing the required physiological mechinisms to support your running and allow you to increase.

4) Listen to your body.  Are you bored while doing your last 10 minutes?  If so go a bit faster.  Are you having difficulty breathing during your first 5 minutes? If so slow down.  It is difficult to take things slow when you get bit by the bug, but you need to approach things smartly or you  could get hurt which is no fun.

5) Even though you should take things slow don't be afraid to push yourself a bit. That is the foundation of the C25K program is pushing a bit more each week.

6) Run with purpose.  Find an event a 1mile fun run or a 5K, many of these are very family oriented and friendly.  By having a goal when you start you will be more liekly to push forward and follow through.  It isn't about how fast you can complete an event the biggest vitory is in the fact that you first registered, second crossed the starting line and the biggest is that you finished.  Don't worry about times that comes later.

7) Read and learn about running and the things that can improve your running.  Something as simple as brething can be the difference between getting a good mile in or just finishing a mile.

Stop by the Exercise and Fitness forum for some great advice, support, and motivation.  This is a forum with a great group of people whose focus is on living a Fit and healthy lifestyle.  There is no judgement and everyones workout is as important as everyone elses.  Your first mile is as important as mine as we all started in the same place.  We maintain a daily workout thread to keep people motivated and accountable.

The biggest thing to remember is HAVE FUN! and welcome to wonderful way of life.
Paul C.
First 5K 9/27/20 46:32 - 11 weeks post op  (PR 28:55 8/15/11)
First 10K 7/04/2011 1:03      
      First 15K 9/18/2011 1:37
First Half Marathon 10/02/2011 2:27:44 (
PR 2:24:35)   
First Half Ironman 9/30/12 7:32:04
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