Is Running Expensive ? : Wk5/2 I thought running... - Couch to 5K

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Is Running Expensive ?

Jen58 profile image
48 Replies

Wk5/2 I thought running would just cost me a decent pair of trainers, This is my personal thought ... Opinion

I got to week 4 and started to have injury problem

Tried stretches , etc

I am determined to complete this ,

Gym Ball , mat ... Massage roller , plus new trainers , running gear £££

Wednesday last week last run ... So Thursday this Wk5/2 great to be outside very apprehensive ... Scared in fact 😔the thought that I would injure myself again was in my mind (so I did so many stretches , warm ups , foam rolls ) one of my reason I started this was to be able to do 5min warm up run/walk cool down /done ?? 😳

Should of been approaching week 7

As it is I am on 5/3

I am little disappointed but at least I am still here🤔

20 Minute run next , last time I ran for 20 Minutes was 1975 😳

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Jen58 profile image
Jen58
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48 Replies
pinkaardvark profile image
pinkaardvarkGraduate

The only piece of equipment that will prevent injury is the grey lump between your ears, no amount of money spent on trainers will help.

If your finding you have to do excessive stretching and foam rollering it's likely your going too fast and hurting yourself. Assuming your not overweight(if you are lose some weight), you probably just need to slow down a bit.

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply topinkaardvark

Bit harsh !

Everyone but you seems to say get a decent pair of running shoes ?

pinkaardvark profile image
pinkaardvarkGraduate in reply toJen58

No I didn't say anything about shoes, and sorry if I came off as harsh. Maybe tough love though. For the type of running you are doing you don't really need expensive trainers yet. Studies have shown there is zero correlation between gait analysis and injury reduction, a lot of people on here will find that hard to accept but it is true, that's not to say there is no value in gait analysis as a science but unfortunately what is pedalled in most shoe shops is psuedoscience by people who are not trained podiatrists. They may come to a good judgement call but equally they may not. What has been proven is that comfort does help reduce incidence of injury so buying shoes that feel comfortable and feel like they support you well is actually more important. Injuries come from pounding and twisting as you run, motions that are reduced as your weight reduces, hence why I suggested if you need to lose a bit then spend your money there rather than on shoes, if not then try to improve your running action and the best way I can think for you to do that is slow down a bit.

If your currently running in crocs or clogs or such like, by all means buy some running shoes, but a comfy karrimor pair from sports direct for £20-30 may well be ideal for you.

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply topinkaardvark

No amount of money spent on trainers will help is what you said ? The only piece of equipment that will prevent injury is the grey lump between your (my) ears 😳🙄🤔😡😤

GoGo_JoJo profile image
GoGo_JoJoGraduate

I know what you mean, however I think once your fitness is at the right level you won't need as many "accessories" and it will just be a case of walk, run, walk, done.

Shoes, yes, you'll always need good shoes. Gear? Well the reality is we can run in a t shirt or fleece and leggings, it's just very easy to get drawn into the world of runners fashion.

It's just the way things are now, we take up a new hobby, we must buy all the "right" stuff to make ourselves feel more likely to succeed. It can be part if the motivation, after all if we've invested more than just time we have to try a little bit harder or risk wasting that investment...

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply toGoGo_JoJo

I certainly didn't spend a fortune , on running gear , couldn't see myself running in jeans /trousers , so appropriate bottoms were

needed ,

I even got my running trainers in sale from a proper running shop , even ran on a treadmill 😳😊

in reply toGoGo_JoJo

T-shirt will stick to you with sweat and chill you as cotton is the worst thing to wear for activity, especially in the cold. Your fleece will make you sweat five minutes into the run and will end up tied round your waist , annoying you at every stride (been there, done that - quickly swapped it for a light weight running jacket bought for very little on ebay).leggings also cotton mix. Lycra is light, supportive, highly visible, especially at night, and wicks sweat away from you so you dont get chafed. These things begin to show their valueas you begin running for over 30 minutes at a time. Running gear doesnt have to be expensive. Aldi, for example, do it very cheaply indeed.

runswithdogs profile image
runswithdogsGraduate in reply to

The technical running shirts can be really nice to run in, but if you ever anticipate that you'll be running fun runs and races, don't buy too many. They're often given with the entry, I have more shirts than I'll ever wear out.

davelinks profile image
davelinksGraduate

It can be if you let it, just ask Flickm3... Good morning Flick!😁

Of course you need a decent pair of trainers for running! they certainly help, but needn't cost the earth with gait analysis..

Make sure you warmup and stretch properly afterwards and maybe slow down, I've never had to use any of that gear much...😊

in reply todavelinks

Oh har jolly har 😜 He’s referring to my three pairs of running shoes and drawer full of lycra Jen58 . And Im not the only one. I wont mention by name (that’s you Hidden Im not referring to by name) who drew the following to my attention - I mean, how could anyone resist unicorn running leggings ... not that Ive bought any yet, being still in recovery from the purple starry leggings. tikiboo.co.uk/

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply to

🙄😮what have I started 🤔

I was lead to believe that this was a friendly helpful place to come ,

Everyone was suppose to supportive 😕😂😂😂

in reply toJen58

it is and we are 😊 just dont get us started on lycra addiction 😂

GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMeGraduate

I'm wondering what footwear you are buying if you are saying 'trainers'? Covers a multitude of sins, some not really designed for running. (I'd be the last to say you have to have found the perfect shoe before you start.

If you think running's expensive, try cycling!

But there can be expenses... and you've not even mentioned getting professional input into your injury yet and seeing a physio or sports therapist... it may be that some of the things you have been doing are more harmful than helpful.

A friend of mine (who swims) pointed out the cost of a pair of running shoes per run really isn't much.

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply toGoogleMe

I now own the perfect pair of Running shoes , sorry not any old type of trainer

I also cycle 😂😂😂

my problem is TFL

Michael_W profile image
Michael_WGraduate

You'll get there if you stick at it. What's a few extra weeks in the grand scheme of it all? Just hang on in there and try not to overthink stuff.

If you've picked up a niggle, try taking an extra rest day. If that doesn't lead to improvement, perhaps a trip to the doctor to rule out anything more serious.

For most beginners, a brisk walk before running is sufficient warm up. Later, when you're running regularly that will probably become a gentle jog with dynamic stretching.

Likewise, a stretchy walk or slow jog is usually enough for the cool down. I know a lot of people go in for all kinds of stretching exercises, rollers etc but personally I can't be doing with all that faff. A good hot shower and some warm, comfortable clothing does it for me.

On the subject of kit, well, that's what birthdays and Christmas are for! A decent pair of well fitting, comfortable running shoes and whatever sports clothing you can cobble together is enough to start with.

Good luck!

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply toMichael_W

Thank you 😊

MickGJ profile image
MickGJGraduate

I'm trying to feed in additional exercises---my hips are going and I need to do some strength work so I'll probably end up buying all that stuff anyway.

My main expense has been buying running shoes from a proper running shop as I'm a bit worried about my knees, but what with some gear from TKMaxx and a couple of accessories I'm good for another year.

Going forward I reckon this might cost me £2 a week, less if I can replace the shoes cheaply from the internet.

But I see "toys" as mainly motivational items--if a snazzy new t-shirt or a gadget will keep me running, I'm buying it!

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply toMickGJ

Thank you 👍🏻

ju-ju- profile image
ju-ju-Graduate

My osteopath has shown me what to do with a tennis ball and a stubby deodorant bottle, you don’t need expensive gadgets. You could spend a small fortune should you wish but there is no need. I do have a penchant for nice running gear and I love Sweaty Betty but it costs an arm and a leg.....

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply toju-ju-

I tried tennis ball also but must say the foam roller works for me ,

Newbies in any sport are often unkindly labelled as having ‘all the gear and no idea’. Obviously good shoes are the minimum. Aside from that you just need comfy clothes and some way of listening to the app. However it is nice to have gear that makes you feel good and increases confidence. As you progress you might want a tracker of some kind and a second pair of shoes for alternate runs. My most recent purchase is a running dog lead, which was necessary while I was on holiday but that was a further £35 in my running spend....

Oh yes a means of carrying stuff is a good idea too....

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply to

I certainly haven't got all of the gear , possibly no idea ... I look at the price of running gear and do the Yorkshire war cry 👍🏻

HOW MUCH ?

in reply toJen58

On the other hand, Ive seen people refusing to buy proper running shoes and slogging on in old trainers, but thinking nothing of splurging £50 on a night out. It’s a matter of priorities. I have three pairs of running shoes, two road which I rotate, due to old serious leg injuries, which means it’s preferable for me to stress alternate areas of my legs, and one pair of trail shoes which can also be worn on the road. I do have more than one pair of running bottoms and two tops, several pairs of running socks, and a wind and shower proof light jacket. The tops and bottoms are wicking material that keeps you warm/cool and dry. Each garment was bought after wearing everyday alternatives and finding them lacking in some way. For example, i wore a lightish everyday jacket but was getting hot five minutes into a run and having to tie it round my waist. The running jacket is paper thin but keeps wind and rain out and allows sweat to escape, keeping me dry. Running tops soon show their value when you have run in a cotton t-shirt that stays wet and clammy. All the gear will last years and not need replacing for a very long time. There is a reason other than vanity that almost every runner you see is wearing lycra and other running gear. It keeps you warm/cool, comfortable, visible and safe.

in reply to

That and the multi million pound industry that needs constant feeding....

in reply to

You can buy running gear for very little. A whole running outfit can cost a few £££. Mind you, teh expensive stuff is veey nice 😍😍😍😍😍

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply to

Some would say £45.00 was to much for a over the shoulder boulder holder ...

I certainly wouldn't of got off the couch without it 😂😂😂😂

GoGo_JoJo profile image
GoGo_JoJoGraduate in reply toJen58

I refused to pay that much, got my top selling brand for under 14 quid on eBay brand new tags on 👍

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply toGoGo_JoJo

I am very pleased with my purchase .. It has got me off the couch .. Only wish I could buy a sports bra with confidence off eBay .

Sadly I can't 🙄

Anniemurph profile image
AnniemurphGraduate in reply toJen58

Once you know what style and size you need, keep looking and perhaps you might find it on there, you never know :)

thisfishcan profile image
thisfishcanGraduate in reply toJen58

I agree. A good bra and compression leggings for me.

in reply toJen58

Have a look in TKMax, lidl and aldi. As with all things you can spend a fortune or a Yorkshire amount :)

I tell my Yorkshire husband that Yorkshire men are like Scottish men, but without the generosity....

in reply to

Ah, you beat me to it with te cheapo gear suggestions 😊

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply to

I keep looking in TKMax . I did get a running top from there , what a difference to a normal everyday top

I not going to spend a fortune yet , need to lose weight first 😊

GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMeGraduate in reply to

I am of mixed race, Lancashire born mother, Yorkshire born and raised father. He has been caught doing 'cut and shut' on running shoes.

MickGJ profile image
MickGJGraduate in reply toJen58

Are you near a tkmaxx? I came out of there with two running shirts and a pair of running shorts for under £30.

davelinks profile image
davelinksGraduate

Well done Jen! Keep going, any sign of pain then you'll have to ease off.. let us know how the 20 mins goes, remember slow and steady gets you there!😊

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply todavelinks

I did it , I ran for the whole 20mins

No pain until after 5min walk

Doing some stretches on my new gym ball and then onto foam roller ... It worked for me yesterday 😉

in reply toJen58

Fantastic, well done! It will get easier from now on - except watch for week six, seems easy but is tougher than it looks. All plain sailing after that. Youre doing really well 😊

Jen58 profile image
Jen58 in reply to

Thank you 👍🏻 I have learned that I need to do stretches before and after a run , so pleased I got the foam roller it works for me

Anniemurph profile image
AnniemurphGraduate

Ha ha! So did I :D I started in the kit I had. I thought it was going to be a cheap sport and I would never - never! - waste petrol by getting in the car to drive to somewhere to run. Right...

At Week 3 I was crying with pain in my shins. I went for gait analysis, came away with very expensive shoes and no more pain (so I disagree with the people who say it doesn't matter - it made a difference to me). Even now, it takes a long time to find the right pair of new shoes.

A bra is key and I won't wear any but ShockAbsorber - but I know what style and size and buy them from eBay.

You do need leggings and tops suitable for running, but plenty of places such as the supermarkets, Primark etc. sell cheap kit that is excellent. Cotton is heavy and holds the sweat in.

You can record your distance etc. on your phone for free using Strava, Runkeeper, or one of the many other apps.

I now spend a lot of money on clothing, gadgets, race entries, travel, physio etc. but none of it is strictly necessary (well, the physio perhaps). A word of caution about stretching before a run - make sure they are the right stretches because otherwise you'll do yourself more harm than good. There's a pinned post I think.

Aaaaaand... you're doing great! Yes, you might have to slow down a bit - so what? It took me 50 runs not the standard 27 to complete C25K. I am still slow. I will never run 5k in 30 minutes. But nearly 6 years on I am still running, I have made many new friends, I have run in other countries and met online C25K friends there, I have entered races and come away with bling, and my health is greatly improved. Keep going. You will complete and you are doing brilliantly. Happy running :)

GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMeGraduate in reply toAnniemurph

Definitely agree about the caution about pre-exercise stretches... and must clarify about the footwear not mattering... they *do* matter if you have a problem with them, then they need changing. (I wish it wasn't so random... I can run in sandals and walking boots without a problem (should I be taken with a sudden opportunity) but the first pair of trail running shoes I was carefully fitted with, complete with video gait analysis and insoles made my knees knock together and worse... the second were very heaven)

Anniemurph profile image
AnniemurphGraduate in reply toGoogleMe

It's weird about footwear, isn't it? Some should suit and don't, some shouldn't and do. Most odd.

GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMeGraduate in reply toAnniemurph

Have just ordered new shoes - 'free' as got Amazon vouchers for doing a survey (and I bloomin' well earned them, it was hard work) Nervous!

Anniemurph profile image
AnniemurphGraduate in reply toGoogleMe

Ooh, exciting! What have you ordered?

GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMeGraduate in reply toAnniemurph

Merrells. Bare Access Arc 4. Never had Merrells but word is they are slightly less godawful in the ethics department (oh the irony of buying them from Amazon but again... free to me)

But all my running shoes really need ditching so will likely be spending my own money as I like to have at least two pairs.

Anniemurph profile image
AnniemurphGraduate in reply toGoogleMe

I shall look forward to the obligatory pic.

Jen58 profile image
Jen58

Thank you for your words of wisdom and well done on your achievements 👍🏻

thisfishcan profile image
thisfishcanGraduate

I have been putting a £ in a pot after every run. At the end of the year it will go towards things i may need to continue on my running journey.

After my run and cool down, I do more stretches followed by an epsom salt bath. Doing this has really helped with my aches and pains.

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