Ill health and starting to run

[Inominate]

There have been a few posts on the forum last week about the difficulties starting exercise when in poor health and very out of shape. Then I heard this chap speaking on radio 4 with a quite amazing story of how he went from being obese and walking with a stick at 55 years old to a superb 60 year old athlete. Here's the link,

bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07lj7...

start listening at 42 mins it's just a few minutes long. .For those who are struggling, ignore all the marathons he has run (few of us will every reach such fitness levels) but take heart from where he started from - just doing short walks to the end of the road. Very inspiring.

[misswobble Graduate]

Thanks for the link ☺

Yep, we all have to start somewhere. I began by walking and borrowed a dog to help me. I have never looked back. We have everything to gain by taking that vital first step. C25k is a marvellous programme and a sensible introduction to exercise.

[sunnysideup]

Thanks, I needed this. I've just signed up for the app and a friend has already tried to put me off by saying how running is bad for people. I'm not even sure I can run Tbh, but I want to try. It will mostly be walking to start off with . I'm in poor health but I'm not stupid and know not to take risks. There's more risks involved in me being sedentary than running/walking/jogging. It does make it hard though when someone undermines your choice and therefore your enthusiasm.

[HappyRunner Graduate in reply to sunnysideup]

The c25k is such a positive thing to do. I never thought that I would be able to run but at the last count I completed 5 miles. I have toned up and generally look so much better for it so for me there is no such thing as 'running is bad for you.'

[Inominate in reply to sunnysideup]

It's so important to surround yourself with positive people which is why this forum has been so valuable to many. Running is not bad for people at all ( there is plenty of good evidence for that). Your friend may be trying to justifying their own bad habits. I had to relearn how to run. Good luck, sunnysideup.

[HappyRunner Graduate]

Just listened to this. Thanks for sharing. Just goes to show that it is never too late for anything! Very inspirational.