Any runners out there?

armandos_girl · December 2009

I've been kicking around the idea of starting up running. We have a jogging stroller and I think Gabe would enjoy it, which would in turn motivate me to get off my ass and go.

I just read about the Couch to 5k program on another board. I had heard about it, but hadn't really looked into it and now I'm intrigued. Anyone have any thought or tips for me? I'll need to buy a new pair of shoes, but not sure if there is anything else I'd need.

preppynewlywed · December 2009

I've never done the couch program, but I've been running competitively since 9th grade.

Buy a good sports bra. In my opinion, that is more important than good shoes.

I'm talking a really good one: Nike or Underarmor. Some things should not be cheaped out on.

Mrs.Rotty · December 2009

the couch to 5k progam is awesome. there are 2 differant pod casts you can get for it. i'll link it for you when you get home

its a good program i really enjoy it, i'm actually going to start it up here next week again.

Alex17 · December 2009

Take it slow. Don't get discouraged when you run for two minutes and feel like dying! You have to build up.

I recommend a walk/run/walk/run routine to get started.

Go to a specialty running store to get fitted for a good bra and shoes. Like Fleet Feet or something similar. You will pay a little more, but it is SO worth it.

If you don't have the right shoes/bra you'll end up hating it and getting injured or giving up.

staycee · December 2009

I used to be a runner (well, really I should say "jogger")

I did 4 marathons and numerous 5/10/15k's

I really need to start up again.

My advice: get fitted properly for shoes by a store that specializes in running. I go to a store that puts you in like 20 different pairs and makes you run down and back and watches your gait/stride/whatever. You take what they decide for you (no matter if they weren't your fav color). I've never had a problem with my ankles, knees, or feet from shoe issues

Also, start with a mile and add a little bit at a time weekly. One mile week 1. Two miles on week 2, etc... If you get into longer miles do long runs on weekends and "maintenance" runs of 4 or 5 a few times during the work week.

Mrs.Rotty · December 2009

preppynewlywed:

I've never done the couch program, but I've been running competitively since 9th grade.

Buy a good sports bra. In my opinion, that is more important than good shoes.

I'm talking a really good one: Nike or Underarmor. Some things should not be cheaped out on.

truer words have never been spoken.

i've got some bigguns and omgsh spend the money

andrew's wifey · December 2009

I started running last year. I took a half marathon training class, and have just tried to run a few miles a couple times a week.

I know a few people who have done the Couch to 5k program and it has worked for them! I'm not one to do something like that on my own, so I keep taking running classes.

If you can find a jogging moms group or something, that would be cool. The guy who runs the class I take has a stroller jogging class, so surely there's something out your way that's similar!

Sports bras are very, VERY important!

staycee · December 2009

preppynewlywed:

Buy a good sports bra. In my opinion, that is more important than good shoes.

this too. Being a DD pre-pg I always bought the Champion one made for big boobies.

This is the #2 thing stopping me from starting back up again right now. My boobs are too big right now for my running bra and I refuse to spend $50 on a new one for while I'm BF'ing.

(#1 reason is laziness)

armandos_girl · December 2009

Thanks ladies. I forgot about the sports bra part - I have one at home, but I doubt it fits right anymore.

I've done some run/walk on the treadmill at the gym (back when I went to the gym...) but that's about it. But I'm stoked to try this out.

preppynewlywed · December 2009

Also, don't think you can pick out your own shoes at D1ck's or REI or something.

Go to a specialty store. They will put you on a treadmill or an indoor track. Shoes are good for about 300 miles, and if you can afford it I say buy 2 pairs and alternate each week. It extends the life of the shoe to about 500 miles.

Running shoes are a biitch to pick out unless you are already know what you need, and even then it sucks. I've been wearing the same shoe style since 9th grade, and I still try on 5-6 pairs every time I go. I just want to make sure I am getting what is best for me.

Expect to fork over some money for good shoes. I usually pay about $130/pair.

ETA: The bump edited the name of a certain store...hilarious.

Alex17 · December 2009

I agree with Preppy. I cannot emphasize enough how important the right shoe is for you.

And have fun! I miss running so much and can't wait to start again!

ValentineBB · December 2009

Alex17:

Take it slow. Don't get discouraged when you run for two minutes and feel like dying! You have to build up.

I recommend a walk/run/walk/run routine to get started.

Go to a specialty running store to get fitted for a good bra and shoes. Like Fleet Feet or something similar. You will pay a little more, but it is SO worth it.

If you don't have the right shoes/bra you'll end up hating it and getting injured or giving up.

This. Walk if you need to, it's amazing how much your stamina will improve even after a week of walking/jogging.

Also - ditto times a million on the good bra/shoes. It makes all the difference in the world.

LadyXaverian · December 2009

armandos_girl:
I've been kicking around the idea of starting up running. We have a jogging stroller and I think Gabe would enjoy it, which would in turn motivate me to get off my ass and go.
I just read about the Couch to 5k program on another board. I had heard about it, but hadn't really looked into it and now I'm intrigued. Anyone have any thought or tips for me? I'll need to buy a new pair of shoes, but not sure if there is anything else I'd need.

I love Couch to 5K!! My advice is don't try to skip steps even when it feels like you can do more.

Also, don't buy cheap shoes. Good running shoes are worth the investment in order to avoid shin splints and other injuries.

Good luck!

ETA: I just realized the PP gave you the exact same advice. My bad.

Anna&Matt · December 2009

ditto pretty much everyone's advice.

I would definitely go to a specialty running store to get fitted for the right shoe AND sports bra. The right store should be able to help you with both - we have "Fleet Feet" as a chain around here, not sure if they are national or not.

When you start off start slow. Do not increase your mileage by more than 10% per week or you risk overuse injuries like stress fractures and tendonitis. I think the couch to 5k program is a great option for beginners.

I also ran competitively from 9th grade through college and have done marathons and half marathons since until I blew my knee out 2 years ago. I am hoping to get back to running at least 5k/10k post baby.

Also - when you first start out cross train some too if you have the time. It will help you get conditioned faster - swimming or elliptical are great cross training exercises or even going for brisk walks with the stroller.

armandos_girl · December 2009

Thanks! I just googled Fleet Feet and they only have one store in San Antonio, but it's 5 minutes from where I work. I'll stop in and check them out sometime this week.

two-pink-shoes · December 2009

I did C25k. It only calls for you to run 3x/week but I think it works better if you do it (or some cardio, at least) more than that.

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