Newbie, tips needee

[Loulou38]

Hi all, so I am a complete newbie to running, I've just started w1 couch to 5k and I struggle running for 1minute!!. I'm asthmatic and have an interactive thyroid does anyone have any tips on how to catch a breath? I don't want to give before I've started. Please tell me it gets easier.

[Runninrhirhi]

I have an overactive thyroid which sometimes goes under active too lol. Tips don’t run too fast find a pace to suit you, I couldn’t run to the shop at the end of the road now I can run 5 mins at a time x

[Loulou38 in reply to Runninrhirhi]

Lol, thyroid condition is pants. I have lost a lot of muscle due to graves disease. Then I was treated with iodine radiation. Hence why I'm underactive now and struggle with my weight. Congrats on the five mins I hope I manage to get to that point. I've tried breathing techniques but can't manage it. Anyway hears to running😧and getting fit 😊. Thank you for your reply and good luck with your running x

[Elles78 Graduate]

I’ve just started week 6 and never thought that would be possible. I’m not asthmatic but when I started I was puffing and panting at the end of 60 seconds and never thought I’d be able to run further. The key is to slow it down! You get the hang of breathing.... it somehow just clicks!

When I say slow it down ..... most of the time I feel I may as well be going backwards I’m going so slow!! Good luck x

[Loulou38 in reply to Elles78]

Hahaha, sounds similar to me, I'm not sure I can slow down anymore but il try. So your running for 8mins at the moment. How is it, did you find the transfer from each week easy? Or at least doable?. Good luck to you to and thank you for your reply x

[Beccy8348E]

Hi Loulou, I’m asthmatic and breathing was a real concern to me too, i completely understand you being apprehensive. I am about to take on W6R1 and feel that I am making really good progress and the breathing is fine, yes I get out of breath and am panting, but yes it’s fine.

Best tips..

# keep shoulders low and relaxed - if shoulders start to rise this is added tension and makes breathing harder. If you find you are getting particularly short of breath check your posture and shoulders

# use inhaler before setting off

# when it get tough, like really tough, slow down but don’t give up and walk

# watch out for windy days, or keep to more sheltered runs. On around week 4 I got caught out running across a field in high winds, for me I have to be extra cautious when it windy.

But most of all, believe you can do this. The programme gradually increases your fitness and capability, your body can do it, it’s the mind that needs the constant reminder!

[Loulou38 in reply to Beccy8348E]

Hey Becci, thank you so much for the in-depth advice. I will use all your tips in future! I really truly want to do this, I want to be that person that enjoys running if that exists lol. Thank you again and happy running, wish you all the best with wk7😊

[Runninrhirhi]

Yeah I have exact same Graves’ disease, I find it hard to get my weight down by can definitely see inch loss and muscle building now and increased stamina which I never thought I would have! U can do it !!! X