Staying fit

[Aquila12]

Hi all,

I was wondering, if my goal was to just stay fit, would I need to run thirty minutes each time? I plan on progressing but due to a problem with asthma medication, right now I'm struggling a bit.

Thanks for reading

[Hidden]

When I was struggling with asthma stuff during the winter I did only 1, 2 runs a week, and as little as 1-2k sometimes. I found it quite easy to build back up once I was better. But I had nearly 2 years' running under my belt at that point, which I think helped. I think in simple terms just running a little, regularly, is way better than nothing at all. Also ask your doctor/asthma nurse. I was surprised to actually get some useful advice about running and asthma. So it's worth asking

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate10]

If you are struggling right now.. take it easy and be kind to yourself.

Some gentle runs just for pure pleasure.. because you can... gentle exercise on rest days too will help build up stamina and strength...then consolidating the 30 minutes is useful, but not all the time...do some short runs, maybe try a little faster pace if you feel okay... then some walk and run intervals... explore the C25K+ podcasts too.

But..make sure your meds are sorted and that you feel good Slow and steady.. as ever..the same on this forum as on C25K

[Aquila12]

Thanks for the advice and reassurance. I was feeling bit down on myself for struggling after all that hard work. Meds were my silly fault. Forgot to order prescription so had to cut down to make it last over weekend 😳

[IannodaTruffe Graduate10]

The official recommendation is to do 150 minutes per week of moderate aerobic exercise. This doesn't have to be in thirty minute chunks, but hey, once you have built up a sweat, you might as well go for half an hour.

There is a study that suggests that running slowly, two to three times per week, with a weekly total of 1 to 2 miles, is the optimum for longevity, but it may not deliver the same degree of fitness. womensrunning.competitor.co...

The last two winters have coincided with non running injuries, which have knocked back my running to only one run per week at times, but you soon build back. Do what you can manage and don't agonize about it if you are maintaining a regular habit.

[pollyp1 Graduate10]

I'm struggling with time more than anything at the mo so I try and run a couple of miles a couple of times a week. It usually takes about 25 minutes and keeps me grounded. You don't have to run 30 minutes every time; if you want to keep running, as long as you do what you can regularly - be that 10 minutes or 30 - then you will get better. I find that when I do longer runs they are easier now. Work out what works for you, keep doing it and you'll soon improve, be that further, faster or easier. Have fun.