Any runners out there, need advice?

ktorkelson · January 2010

I really want to start running but I can't seem to run for more then a minute at a time. I am in shape and can do other exercises and activities well, but for some reason when I try to run I can't get very far. Please tell me I am not hopeless. Any books, websites, inspiration or advice? Thanks!

the_mulva · January 2010

I've known people who could barely walk more than 30 min briskly who ended up running marathons. try the couch to 5K program. A lot of beginners have luck w/ that.

djandkellen · January 2010

I'd say start off with a brisk walk, then try to add in some jogging, then a little running, but alternate with the walking at first.

ktorkelson · January 2010

Guess I should also mention that it happens while running on the treadmill and outside. I think my main issue is breathing. I watch DH run on the treadmill and he just flies, he just started one day and is already awesome. Of course.

preciousmetal · January 2010

Check out runnersworld.com. Lots of great articles to get you moving. Good luck!

byrne15 · January 2010

are you running on a treadmill or "in real life" as i call it? if on the treadmill, what are you MPH set at?

i find that when you are starting running you should go at a slower pace and just work on running for X amount of time rather than X distance.

if you do a slow jog for 20 minutes it is better than a 5 minute "run" that tires you too early

Skipperg82 · January 2010

Ok well, I haven't run seriously in YEARS but what really helped me start was to go super super slow so I wasn't getting out of breath. Also, breathing through my nose and breathing out of my mouth - sounds really intuitive but before I would breath in/out of my mouth a lot more shallow and I would get out of breath all the time.

Just start really really slow and slowly work your way up, it gets easier and easier...

lpennie16 · January 2010

I agree with pp's. Start out walking for ten minutes to warm up. Then jog slowly. For me, a slow jog on the treadmill is at a speed of 5, but its going to be different for everyone. Do you have asthma? Usually with running, its one of two problems: either your breathing or your leg strength.

Make sure you have good form, aren't lifting your feet too high, shoulders are down and arms are bent, but relaxed. Your hands should be clasped as if you are holding a butterfly that you don't want to get away or crush.

JustMarried2005 · January 2010

Do intervals!

Run (jog) at 5.0 MPH for one minute and then walk at 3.5 MPH for one minute. Repeat for 30 minutes. If 5.0 MPH is too fast, start at 4.5 MPH.

After you find that easy, start moving up slowly, .1 MPH at a time. 5.1 MPH one week, next week 5.2 MPH.

Hope this helps!

*blondiem* · January 2010

Do the Couch 2 5k program! It starts you out really slow, and builds you up over time.

https://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

ktb31 · January 2010

I just started running 4 years ago. I joined a local running group and trained for a 5k. There were weekly runs and I was able to meet other people that were starting out too. I also found it very motivating.

Here is the Runner's World beginning running article with a good starting plan:

https://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-380-381-386-9397-0,00.html

Good Luck! Stick with it!

gina_dt · January 2010

I started last year with the couch to 5k program. I can't believe I can now run 6 miles + at a time. Just stick with it. Some days will be harder than others and definitely start out slowly. That way it won't be so difficult that you don't ever want to do it again and you will be less likely to get injured. Good luck.

C.squared · January 2010

Definitely try the couch to 5k program! I finished the program in October and still run about 4 miles 3-4 times a week now and love it. It ramps you up slowly and is totally manageable. There's also an ipod app that lets you listen to your own music and tells you when to run and walk. Good luck - you can do it!

102503Natalie · January 2010

I used to run for an hour at a time, and now I can barely do 5 minutes w/o passing out. You have to build up for weeks, months to get to the point where you can run for a while and not get winded. Each time you run, you'll start to feel like you can meet more milestones - ok, just one more minute, ok, just two more minutes. Before you know it, you'll be running at a steady pace for 30 minutes and feeling great. Just give yourself some time!

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