Newbie and struggling: Hi all. I’m a complete... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

134,089 members159,459 posts

Newbie and struggling

Im-Running-Now profile image
12 Replies

Hi all. I’m a complete newbie to running, but have managed to complete week 1 ... just.

By the end of runs 2 and 3 I have been in pain with cramping muscles. Run 2 was my calf muscles, and run 3 was both calf muscles and inner top thigh on one side (adductors, I think they’re called). Yes, I did stretches before I set off.

I’m ashamed to say I’m incredibly unfit, 51 years old and about 3 stone overweight ... buts least I’m trying! 😳

As I’m struggling, is it better to repeat the first week or push myself to do the second week before I feel ready.

Any advice appreciated. Thanks all

Written by
Im-Running-Now profile image
Im-Running-Now
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
12 Replies
Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Hi... well done for starting this and welcome:)

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Please check this post out for some really useful advice. Especially for warming up and stretching after the runs:) If you do stretch before running make sure they are dynamic stretches...:)

Please, take it very steadily and slowly...

If you finished you runs then so move on.... but really really steadily. No pushing necessary, so, if you feel you would like to repeat the week then do so.

try some calf exercises too...

womenshealthmag.co.uk/fitne...

Keep posting your runs, because you will get a lot of encouragement and support!

Im-Running-Now profile image
Im-Running-Now in reply toOldfloss

Thanks for the links. I’ve just learned that I need to stretch for longer! Thanks for the advice.

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

Welcome to the forum well done on getting started. Do check out the guide linked to by Oldfloss.

As she says you need to do appropriate stretches before and after your run which will make a considerable difference.

You probably need to ease back on the pace also. This will put less strain on your legs and as your strength builds you will be able to increase that pace, but for now just keep it slow and steady, running at an easy conversational pace as described in the guide to the plan.

Enjoy your journey.

Im-Running-Now profile image
Im-Running-Now in reply toIannodaTruffe

Thanks for the advice. Mind you, if I eased back on the pace any more I’d be going backwards. I know it will get easier ...

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor in reply toIm-Running-Now

It doesn't matter if you can walk faster, if both feet are simultaneously off the ground, you are running.

MatildasPb profile image
MatildasPbGraduate

I can’t add anything to what’s been said above except - Don’t be ashamed. Trust me, we’re not all svelte gazelles here. Be proud of yourself for starting.

Good luck and have fun.

Languid_Lil profile image
Languid_LilGraduate

We definitely aren't all svelte gazelles! There's a few of us, erm, well-upholstered types on here as well! Just take it slow slow slow and don't hurt yourself. You can definitely do this!

UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate

Welcome... nothing to add to the above. You can do this, great job on week one.

Katnap profile image
KatnapGraduate

I repeated week 1 three times!

There are no rules to say you can't stay on a certain week.

Your confidence will grow when it feels a bit easier. 😸

Im-Running-Now profile image
Im-Running-Now in reply toKatnap

Thanks for the support - at least I’m not alone then! 😂

Katnap profile image
KatnapGraduate in reply toIm-Running-Now

I am now starting Week 3 with run 1 this evening.

I started out running on my own with the podcasts but now run in a group.

There were over 50 of us but the numbers are dwindling already.

Jog at a pace barely above your fast walking speed to give your joints a chance to get used to the strains now being put on them.

Honestly, I was very ready to progress ahead of w1r6 but I didn't want to start on Week2 before joining a group starting at week 1. So I ended up posting with the title W1R9 :-o

We are all different, but I currently find myself itching to move on to the next week after run 2 now.

I think you will benefit from staying on week 1 and I look forward to your post telling everyone you have started Week2 😸👟👟😸

Happy running 😸

Im-Running-Now profile image
Im-Running-Now in reply toKatnap

Well done in joining a group - I’m not sure if I’m up for that yet. Such a shame people are dropping out though. However, I’m very lucky to have my husband running with me for support. He used to run years ago, so is finding it very easy and he is more than ready to move on to next level. It’s awkward - I don’t want to hold him up, but equally he wants to help and support me. I know I’ll get there - this group is offering great support. I’ll keep posting with my progress.

Good luck this evening 🙃

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Newbie Struggling tbh

Completed week 2 run 2 last Thursday and have been struggling with very painful knees so run 3 yet...
Animal97 profile image

Calf muscle tightness and pain

Week 3 day 1. I Was running well until 2 minutes into the final 3 minute run - my calf muscles so...
CrazyJoy profile image

Week 1 - struggling!!

So I'm struggling to complete Week 1, I haven't managed yet (after 6 runs) to complete it. Should I...

Any suggestions for struggling to get back into the groove?

I have just spent 3 weeks on holiday (Australia to the UK and return), for at least a week of that...
AmberC profile image
Graduate

W6R2 Struggling!

Hi this is my first post. I’m currently on week 6, never been much of a runner but I’ve surprised...
Tgreen26 profile image
Graduate

Moderation team

See all
MissUnderstanding profile image
MissUnderstandingAdministrator
Annieapple profile image
AnnieappleAdministrator
Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.