Newbie says hello

[becsjw]

Hello everyone, I've just joined and wanted to say hi. It looks like a great community here. I'm looking to improve my fitness as gently as I can as I have a neurological condition that causes exercise intolerance - if my heart rate goes too high I get quite poorly. So rather frustrating for me as I used to love running. However, I think some brisk walking is something I can manage, so I'll be getting out and about with the rest of you 😊. To tell you the truth it's about time - I'm 38 and the middle age spread is starting to take hold! 🤣

[runswithdogs]

Welcome. You'll find all ages, abilities and experiences here. The common theme is that we enjoy walking and that we support each other. Walking is a great place to start, and much like running, you can always slow it down or fully take a break. Keep us posted on your progress and share your tips with us. I found my way here after an accident that sidelined me from life for quite some time. I had to shelve running (and loads of other things) and started with the most basic of walks. Thankfully I've mostly progressed back to my pre-accident exercise life. It's been great support here, and lovely to follow other people's progress as well.

[becsjw in reply to runswithdogs]

Thank you very much. Sorry to hear you had an accident but it's great that you've been able to build your fitness up again.

[runswithdogs in reply to becsjw]

It happens. I find fitness is an ebb and a flow.

[Hidden]

Hi there becsjw - welcome to our friendly forum! So sorry about your condition and the effect it's had on your lifestyle. I've got mobility issues, so brisk walking regularly turns into a slow meander for me! But in the 14 months I've been a member here my fitness levels have improved dramatically! Realfoodieclub has a mantra that works for all of us - go slow and steady and listen to your body! She's a wise woman! Post often and we'll encourage and support you! Best wishes!

[becsjw in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the warm welcome, good for you for improving your fitness despite mobility issues, you're an inspiration!

[Realfoodieclub]

Welcome to our little forum. It is one that will really understand, we have many different abilities on here but we all support each other. I am sorry about the running for you. I don’t have a medical condition as such but I run/walk on doctors advise because as soon as I hit 1min running my heart rate raises. I do find that speed walking keeps the heart rate at a more favourable pace. After recovering from surgery last year I did a bit of race walking which was fun. Keep coming back and letting them s know how you are doing.

[becsjw]

Thanks very much, will do 😊. I'm just experimenting with a heart rate monitor at the moment to make sure I can get a bit sweaty and breathless, but not so much that I get ill. So far so good.