W1r2

[Pinkflamingos]

Last night I completed W1R2. During the first run I struggled and didn’t know how I would do it again, but I did. And it was easier. I was advised by my doctor not to run on tarmac so I found a field but I ran in the dark which I guess comes with it’s own challenges - obstacles, uneven footing and lack of light so I swapped to the pavement halfway through. I now need to scout out a softer running surface that is well lit.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Well done you.... why did your GP advise you not to run on tarmac?

[Pinkflamingos in reply to Oldfloss]

I suffer with chronic back pain and the rheumatologist that I saw last week said running on tarmac would be more jarring than running on grass.

[sparkyjohn Graduate]

You could try a head torch, although I'm not sure I would, I think I'd feel a bit self conscious. No chance of getting out in daylight?

[Pinkflamingos in reply to sparkyjohn]

We have 4 children living at home so wait for the youngest two to be in bed (8pm) before heading out as there would be bedlam. On the weekend we did manage to get out in daylight and will be able to occasionally.

[Katnap Graduate]

A few options for you to look for or try: running machines riverside paths, canalside paths, municipal parks.

Of course, it might depend on what is on your doorstep!

[Pinkflamingos]

Thanks for taking the time to post. I’ve tried machines in the past and get bored very easily. We do have a river near by but it is not lit at all. The other option is that we have a running track near us but I feel a bit self- conscious. Maybe when I’ve been at it a bit longer I’ll have the confidence to run there.

[sparkyjohn Graduate]

Just read your reply to Oldfloss and I wonder if the advice takes into account the availability of "proper" running shoes? I'm not sure that there's a huge difference between grass and tarmac if you have the correct shoes. Obviously I'm not an expert, but Mrs Sparky has fibromyalgia, and rheumatoid arthritis and has received different advice from different health professionals. So a second opinion may be worth while.

[Pinkflamingos in reply to sparkyjohn]

Does Mrs Sparky run and if so does she notice any difference? I also have a mild form of Spina Bifida (Spina Bifida Occulta) and have received differing points of view as to whether this is the root cause of my back pain or not so I do understand that there are various opinions. I do have two pairs of running trainers and when I’m more confident will look into running gait. I’m seeing my physiotherapist in a couple of weeks so will ask his opinion too. He has always been supportive of my dream to run and we were waiting for an improvement in my pain levels but that doesn’t look like it’s going to happen anytime soon so I decided to bite the bullet and get on with it.

[sparkyjohn Graduate in reply to Pinkflamingos]

No, sadly Mrs Sparky finds even walking a short way difficult and uses a rollator. She has had conflicting advice about exercise and even the experts don't always agree. A gait analysis and the right shoes may help you but could be quite expensive and if you can't carry on with the programme would be a waste. Perhaps just walking would be possible until you see your physio.

[Pinkflamingos in reply to sparkyjohn]

I do lots of walking (when I can) and running is my next step. I’m sadly sat on the sofa feeling a bit miserable as am in agony with my back. Run 3 was planned for this evening but I’m postponing it. I think as long as I listen to my body and run when I’m not in too much pain I should be ok.

[sparkyjohn Graduate in reply to Pinkflamingos]

Very sensible I think.

[Zsazsabe]

Hi there, I just finished my W1R2 and feel amazing for it (currently enjoying a smug glow on the sofa). I was a bit scared but it seems to be going okay. I am prepared to repeat a week or two if necessary. No rush eh? Good luck

[Pinkflamingos in reply to Zsazsabe]

Well done you! I think the worst part is the mentality of it, the can I can’t I part.