Newbie and struggling

[Im-Running-Now]

Hi all. I’m a complete newbie to running, but have managed to complete week 1 ... just.

By the end of runs 2 and 3 I have been in pain with cramping muscles. Run 2 was my calf muscles, and run 3 was both calf muscles and inner top thigh on one side (adductors, I think they’re called). Yes, I did stretches before I set off.

I’m ashamed to say I’m incredibly unfit, 51 years old and about 3 stone overweight ... buts least I’m trying! 😳

As I’m struggling, is it better to repeat the first week or push myself to do the second week before I feel ready.

Any advice appreciated. Thanks all

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Hi... well done for starting this and welcome

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Please check this post out for some really useful advice. Especially for warming up and stretching after the runs If you do stretch before running make sure they are dynamic stretches...

Please, take it very steadily and slowly...

If you finished you runs then so move on.... but really really steadily. No pushing necessary, so, if you feel you would like to repeat the week then do so.

try some calf exercises too...

womenshealthmag.co.uk/fitne...

Keep posting your runs, because you will get a lot of encouragement and support!

[Im-Running-Now in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks for the links. I’ve just learned that I need to stretch for longer! Thanks for the advice.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum well done on getting started. Do check out the guide linked to by Oldfloss.

As she says you need to do appropriate stretches before and after your run which will make a considerable difference.

You probably need to ease back on the pace also. This will put less strain on your legs and as your strength builds you will be able to increase that pace, but for now just keep it slow and steady, running at an easy conversational pace as described in the guide to the plan.

Enjoy your journey.

[Im-Running-Now in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for the advice. Mind you, if I eased back on the pace any more I’d be going backwards. I know it will get easier ...

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Im-Running-Now]

It doesn't matter if you can walk faster, if both feet are simultaneously off the ground, you are running.

[MatildasPb Graduate]

I can’t add anything to what’s been said above except - Don’t be ashamed. Trust me, we’re not all svelte gazelles here. Be proud of yourself for starting.

Good luck and have fun.

[Languid_Lil Graduate]

We definitely aren't all svelte gazelles! There's a few of us, erm, well-upholstered types on here as well! Just take it slow slow slow and don't hurt yourself. You can definitely do this!

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Welcome... nothing to add to the above. You can do this, great job on week one.

[Katnap Graduate]

I repeated week 1 three times!

There are no rules to say you can't stay on a certain week.

Your confidence will grow when it feels a bit easier. 😸

[Im-Running-Now in reply to Katnap]

Thanks for the support - at least I’m not alone then! 😂

[Katnap Graduate in reply to Im-Running-Now]

I am now starting Week 3 with run 1 this evening.

I started out running on my own with the podcasts but now run in a group.

There were over 50 of us but the numbers are dwindling already.

Jog at a pace barely above your fast walking speed to give your joints a chance to get used to the strains now being put on them.

Honestly, I was very ready to progress ahead of w1r6 but I didn't want to start on Week2 before joining a group starting at week 1. So I ended up posting with the title W1R9

We are all different, but I currently find myself itching to move on to the next week after run 2 now.

I think you will benefit from staying on week 1 and I look forward to your post telling everyone you have started Week2 😸👟👟😸

Happy running 😸

[Im-Running-Now in reply to Katnap]

Well done in joining a group - I’m not sure if I’m up for that yet. Such a shame people are dropping out though. However, I’m very lucky to have my husband running with me for support. He used to run years ago, so is finding it very easy and he is more than ready to move on to next level. It’s awkward - I don’t want to hold him up, but equally he wants to help and support me. I know I’ll get there - this group is offering great support. I’ll keep posting with my progress.

Good luck this evening 🙃