Virgin runner

[Jclan]

Hi all, I'm new to running but have been planning to try for a while. I'm 40 this year and I've never been into frequent exercise. I did w1r1 on Sunday. It didn't go great. I couldn't maintain the pace and ended up with 30 second runs and 2 minute walks between. Yesterday my legs were really stiff and achy. I did some stretches last night which helped but still have stiffness this morning. I think I'm going to have to take a step back and do some brisk walking for a couple of weeks then try the w1 again. Advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and SLOW DOWN!!!

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Get your pace down to one at which you can carry out a clear ungasping conversation and you will be able to sustain it.

There are links to stretches for pre and post run in the guide.

Keep us posted.

[Hidden]

Hi Jclan and welcome to the family!

Sorry you've struggled, I'm sure it's fixable though.

It sounds to me like you may have run too fast, particularly when you say "couldn't maintain the pace". At this stage, the pace doesn't matter, and if you start to get tired, slow down, it's fine, it's purely about completing the time, distance and pace is not a factor in doing Couch to 5K, despite the title!

I'm not a medical expert, but the stiffness is probably just due to using muscles that your body didn't know existed until Sunday. Make sure you have a rest today, maybe some stretches if you feel up to it, see here: nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/h...

When you feel ready, have another crack at it, probably at a slower pace. I graduated (aged 42 then) in November, having never done any form of exercise, so it can be done

All the best, Neil

[Ab36 Graduate]

Hi, Im new to this too, just turned 41.I did week 1 run1 yesterday, feeling ok this morning a wee bit achy. Just walking today then will run again tomorrow, I would try not to stop the running altogether because it will feel like a backwards step. But you need to do what your body can handle...dont overdo it. Keep in touch, will hear how it goes. A

[Jclan in reply to Ab36]

Hey! Thank you for your reply. I'm going to do some brisk walking. I have loaded the active 10 app. I have never been an active person but with some work I'll get there. J.