My first run

[Grahamy32]

Hello there,

Just started couch to 5k first run this morning was fine apart from the stitch in my side underneath my stomach and felt a little faint as run was before breakfast. Looking forward to achieving my goal of 5k and to continue running each morning afterwards. I hope we can all motivate each other as we progress though.

Graham

[Hidden]

Hi Graham, try to eat and drink before your run, your stitch could have been dehydration and light headedness is probably a lack of food. Try to eat at least some toast before you exercise in the morning.

[Grahamy32 in reply to Hidden]

Sweet I give that a try I was trying not eat as thought it might make me feel bloated but will try toast or fruit something light.

[Sadie-runs Graduate in reply to Grahamy32]

A banana is always a good pre-run snack! Happy running and all the best to you. 🏃‍♀️👏

[Fergyfox13 Graduate]

Well done-you are on your way 👏🏻😀👍🏃‍♂️

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the programme and to your support team.

Well done on getting started.

If you are new to running, do yourself a favour and don't push hard. Your stamina will still develop but you will be less likely to injure yourself. A gentle jog will do the job.

For a stitch, slow down and breathe deeply. Drinking before a run is good and good general hydration is crucial to good performance. Better not to drink while running in my opinion, as it can be the cause of a stitch.

This programme will get you running for thirty minutes......that is it's stated aim. Many do not manage 5k in 30 minutes at graduation, so don't get fixated on speed or distance covered.

Always take your rest days. When you run you create micro tears in your muscles. These repair and strengthen on your rest days. Other non impact cross training on rest days is beneficial. This rule is sacrosanct for new runners and it is not recommended that you run daily for many months.

Enjoy your journey.

[Wantorun2013 Graduate]

Well done you making the best decision this year you will love it beware it should come with a health warning ⚠️ Highly addictive 👍😂

[Grahamy32 in reply to Wantorun2013]

I can see it being highly addictive once I really get into it, at the moment sometimes felt like a chore but this morning I had loads of motivation and just brought a new pair of running shoes which I was getting excited in store thinking of the running clothes I can buy etc

[Shelby1973 Graduate]

Hi graham welcome aboard x

[Grahamy32 in reply to Shelby1973]

Thanks looking forward to helping each other on here

[Shelby1973 Graduate in reply to Grahamy32]

Its a great forum and everyone is helpful and supportive. 😀 x

[Hidden in reply to Shelby1973]

Hi Graham well done. .I agree a very informed and supportive forum

[Midriff_Crisis Graduate]

You've taken the first and most important step ... to start the programme. You'll find yourself tested along the way, but believe me (from someone who was adamant that he didn't do running) ... you will learn to love it and eagerly await the next run.

Good luck on your running journey. Keep us all up to date with how you find it all.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Welcome.

Lots of support and advice here for your running journey. Terrific encouragement and ots of fun!

Follow the programme carefully, making sure you take a rest day, without fail, between all run days. Hydrate well, every day, not just run days.. and maybe something light before you head out..

I run early, ( except this morning it was after 8.30!) Always a cup of tea and two digestive light about 45 mins before I head out.. we all have different needs

Listen to your body and above all... do not push too hard... the aim is three 30 minute runs.. injury free and comfortably after about nine weeks... so, slow and steady and you are on your way