Should I wait until cold has cleared up?

[Catalana]

Hi C2Kers, I would appreciate some advice. I'm really keen to start the C2K programme but I had a bad cold/flu type thing over Christmas, which has more or less cleared up although I still have a bit of a cough. I also have mild asthma. I don't feel ill at all & don't to bother my GP for advice. I'm 49 and generally healthy but not very fit! Would I be OK to start or should I wait? Thanks!

[MickGJ Graduate]

Try the first run and see how you feel. It's not an aggressive programme.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Below the neck do not run... above the neck .. head out and see. If the issue is still affecting your chest, and with your mild asthma too, it may be best to let it clear. We are not experts, and, if you are self- diagnosing, then best err on the side of caution.

If you feel well, head out for some brisk walks and then maybe a light jog to test the water

The runs will still be there

[Lillybeth30mins Graduate]

Why not try a few (very) brisk walks??... it will give you an idea on your energy levels and you’ll know if your chest can cope. I’m at the end of W2 and I currently walk faster than I jog I think! (Which I’m assured is fine😁) and so don’t feel walking is any less of an exercise if done quickly x

[nhs2015 Graduate]

I wouldn’t do anything. To get over a cold, bed rest is recommended. A good excuse for being lazy. Stay longer in bed, relax on the couch with a box of tissues, a good movie or a good book and a cup of tea or chocolat. It will be gone in no time if you let your body rest. Then and only then, start your run and you will find it enjoyable.

[mel909 in reply to nhs2015]

how do I start this running thing, interested but a bit nervous, any advice. I have just been re-diagnosed. From severe copd, to mild asthma, after ct scan, and all meds drastically reduced. Have been incapacitated for years with thick sputum, n chest infections pnemonias. Lots of treatment.

Lost a lot of time being so sick, want to get fitter, am now 63.

[davelinks Graduate]

I would wait until fit to go! Start fresh, don't want a cold on chest while running making it feel even harder, well done for wanting to start though..

[schumigirl]

Can you not speak with the Asthma Nurse, I'm sure she would be able to give you advise without you needing to see your actual GP (unless she feels is necessary). As others have said maybe a few Power Walks to get you started may help. You could even do something like a Leslie Sansone walking programme (you can find them on Youtube and they are different durations, etc.) in the house so you don't have to go out in the cold, then start the actual C25K when your chest is fully recovered. Remember that C25K is about building up your stamina not about speed so slow and steady is the key. You can building up your speed, if you wish to do so, once you have completed the programme and built your stamina. Good luck whenever you get started. You've got this, you can do it just own it girl!

[mel909 in reply to schumigirl]

great info,helped me a lot, thanks.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

The basics are covered in this post healthunlocked.com/couchto5... including running while below par.

I would say wait and enjoy your first session.

[Catalana Graduate]

Thanks so much everybody for your advice. Looks like the sensible thing to do is lots of brisk walking this week, while breaking in my bright pink , brand new running shoes Then start properly when I'm 100%. My 50th birthday is at the beginning of March; to reach that milestone, able to run for 30 minutes would be a great way to celebrate!

[Trying2run Graduate]

I’d wait too. And as advice I have asthma and I take my inhaler when I put my running socks on before I head out every time. I haven’t felt wheezy at all when running doing this.

[Trying2run Graduate]

Oh and buy some shoes in a running shop where they do gait analysis. I nearly chocked when my shopkeeper told me the price of the ones I’d picked but they haven’t given me any strife