Wk1 R1/2 under my belt and I have to ask about running style. Those of a certain age will remember the wooden tops and I can only describe my running style as spotty dog!
I run so rigid and stiffly! This could be because running is so alien to me and also a tad self-conscious (doing the diet programme as have 30kg to lose).
Does it become easier as you progress to the longer runs or will I find it easier over time?
Hi and welcome! I know what you mean about posture. The main thing you need to do at this stage is relax as much as possible as this will help with your posture and will also enable you to breathe easier. As you run just make sure you aren't holding your shoulders up or your fists clenched. Bring your shoulders down, shake out your arms and loosen your grip if you feel yourself tightening up again, just repeat.
Don't worry about what other people are thinking either as the vast majority of people won't even see you as they will be in their own little worlds.
Keep us updated with your progress.
Haha! Yes I remember Spotty Dog 🤗 Same era as Andy Pandy, Bill & Ben. Apparently I use to cry every time Andy Pandy waved goodbye at the end 😢
Don't worry one jot about how you look when you run. Each of us has our own style and if you look at the elites you'll see loads of different running styles. But you're right about the stiffness. I remember feeling exactly like that for quite a few weeks of the programme but the feeling goes the more you run and the fitter you get. Aim to be as flexible as possible so make sure you stretch every day, several times if you can and consider taking up yoga and/or Pilates as these both help with flexibility and supple movement.
But fear not, the more you run and go through the programme the less stiff you'll become and then on a run you'll suddenly realise that it's feeling more "fluid". Btw, the runs don't become easier, you become stronger and fitter 💪💪💪
Finally, well done on starting and doing the first two runs 🙂
Hi.....thank you for replying. I am still called Lou by my parents as I resembled Loobey Lou so much 😂
I have enjoyed the sessions and even after just two the buzz I feel is great.
Lovely to know there is that wealth of knowledge out there to turn too.
Big hugs and thank you.😊
Sorry had to laugh as I do remember spotty dog. It sounds like you need to relax a bit but if spotty dog is managing the runs without injury then keep going.
Don't worry! I well recall spotty dog. Loved him. Ta for reminding me 😀
You have not run before so shouldn't be surprised it feels like you are running stiffly. It's nervousness, anxiety even. No worries though as you will get used to it during the programme.
Chill out, be a bit Zen, hang loose sorta thing, and you'll be fine. setting off with a big smile helps too
Good luck have fun! Just go very slowly!
Not necessarily easier...BUT... you become stronger, with every single run.
Keep it slow and steady...Try, and it is hard, to relax... kiss the ground with your feet...shake out your arms, relax your fists and your face and smile 
Why be self-conscious.. you are put there and doing this! Folk who look at you are either jealous..or runners!
" Self-confidence is the best outfit. Rock it and own it! "
Head up, shoulders down, arms at 90 degrees and pushing back and forwards ( and not across your chest) hands not clenched (and a song in your heart) or maybe - just get through it, try and relax and the rest will follow
Please try not to worry about other people's attitudes. I am sure Spotty would not give a damn
The Wooden tops were always my favourite and spotty dog my favourite of them!
I felt like this too, but like I was really leaden-footed and awkward - although I'm now on W5 and feel like I've found my running style a bit Keep going, I'm definitely finding it easier as I go along
Great advice already given. Well done for starting, it sounds like you enjoy the sessions and that buzz just keeps on buzzing 🐝😊....
Keep up the good work. Nice and slow and steady...
I used to love the wooden tops! My favourite!
Keeping your hands relaxed and not clenched will help a lot.
Thank you for all your fantastic advice.
I have decided to repeat week 1 again this week as I am unsure if I'm ready for the next stage. I ran today and found by the end of the session I had found my mojo so want to build on that 😀
Struggling with wk7
Back to square one!
Spot the dog
Running with dog
