I'm in my late 40's, 5ft 11 & was 14½ stone and I hadn't done any exercise for years.
I got out of breath walking up stairs, my blood pressure was verging on the high and I had zero energy. I needed to get fit and although I live in rural Scotland surrounded by lovely flat woodland I hated running. Mind you running costs nothing and this plan seemed to be tailored to me. I also wondered what it was about running that so many of my pals loved.
I started, got to week 4 and one knee went, I couldn't walk for 2 weeks. I went back as soon as I could though, thinking I'd just run through the pain. Big mistake. It went again at week four and this time I was limping all through the summer (6 months)
I did nothing through the winter (its cold and dark up here) and then I went swimming for two weeks before starting again, just a couple of times a week. This just got my heart and lungs working a bit and my muscles used to moving again but no pressure on the joints thanks to the water.
I then took the running REALLY gently, no speed just happy to be moving faster (all be it almost imperceptibly and only just faster) than walking pace.
My knee would be so sore though that it would keep me awake at night after runs and my back was stiff too. I really didn't' think I could do this. I was crippled most of the time. my friends were wondering what was wrong and I was thinking that perhaps running just wasn't for me.
It was then that I took the advice from my marathon running little sister that I had been resisting for so long.
I went for a proper fitting for running shoes at a local running shop. Boy was I out of my comfort zone on a treadmill in public, but the assistant was great. Mind you I nearly fell over at the price of the shoes (£100), but I took the plunge.
Oh my goodness, what a difference. No pain whatsoever during or after the first run in my new shoes and I've not looked back since.
My feet roll inwards so the shoes support the inside of the foot, meaning it lands flat taking all the stress off my poor knee and back. The guy in the shop was spot on. No pain. Instant success.
For the plan I ran on a Monday, a Wednesday, swam for half an hour on Friday then ran again on Monday so each week took me 8 days. Evening runs suited me and I was always outside, no gym running
I really took it really easy and resisted the temptation to map my route until I had finished week nine.I was amazed to find that my 30mins with Laura took me to just about exactly 5k. I entered my first parc run and it took me 30.14secs
I am now running in all weathers and I can actually say that I look forward to getting out and running.
I know, I'm amazed. Almost as surprised as the red squirrel was that I bumped into on a recent run. I'm loving moving "fast" through the woods.
My frame is much firmer, my waist smaller, stomach flatter (I saw my ribs for the first time in ages recently) and, whilst this wasn't the aim, I have lost 1½ stone too. My energy levels are great and I feel so good.
I'm drinking loads of water, which makes a big difference and I find that eating healthier makes the runs easier too. I am outeating Popeye with spinach.
My advice to any one struggling would be, slow down, whatever you are doing is better than sitting on the couch. take your time as Laura says you will get there.
Oh and one other thing. Get the right shoes. I couldn't have done this without them.
This is such a good plan. If I can do it anyone can. Do it at your own pace.
Elated and amazed W5 R3
I think that I am late to the party...
Not the bees knees
Week 4 done and new shoes
