Week 2 Run 1

[PavementPounder]

Did this yesterday and I managed it, but my legs were so heavy and felt so achey. Breathing was slightly better and I tried to keep steady and shuffly as advised, but my legs were so sore. I found it really hard. Is this normal?

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

Sorry it wasn’t much fun. Heavy legs can be a sign of inadequate hydration. If your legs ache a lot you could probably still go a bit slower - give your body time to adjust to the new demands you’re placing on it. Running on grass or hardcore rather than tarmac or paving helps to reduce impact. Hope the next one goes better. It’s not meant to feel like a punishment !

[Scarlet48]

Hi, I'm at the same point as you. Also struggle with heavy legs as I get tired and trouble controlling my pace.

Keep at it, we will get there with all the support on here. I'm going to repeat a run if I feel I'm still not comfortable at the end of this week.

Good Luck with the next one.

[PavementPounder in reply to Scarlet48]

Hi there

I'll do the same. Fingers crossed tomorrows run is better

[Gran4z Graduate]

As Buttercupkid has said, your heavy legs could well be because you are a bit dehydrated. I had the same problem when I started out. So plenty of water, especially on your non running days too. It’s all to do with keeping your circulation flowing easily, bringing oxygen to your hard working muscles.

Enjoy your running, it becomes more and more addictive as you progress...there’s no cure either!! Happy days 🌻

[PavementPounder in reply to Gran4z]

Thank you. I want to love it - I just feel sometimes maybe I'm not cut out for it? I'll def drink loads more water, too! :

[Gran4z Graduate in reply to PavementPounder]

Sorry you feel a bit less confident about the whole thing. I recommend you persevere, after all you've done the hardest bit - you got off the couch and went out and ran.

Be kind to yourself, take it slow and steady, then even slower! It's not a race, it's not a competition. You can do it, believe in yourself. When I started out I used to run and say to myself as I went along 'You can do this', over and over again! And I did it 🙂.

You may come to love it in the end, it may become something you love to hate! But I think as you progress, you will find it becomes more fun. Good luck, and keep on drinking 😬.

[PavementPounder in reply to Gran4z]

Thank you! 🙏