This running lark ain't so easy

[Bike_and_Run]

Hello.

New to the community so thought I'd say hi 👋

I've always considered myself fit and healthy. I eat fairly well (although I probably overendulge on anything sweet) and I cycle to work each day.

Took up running at the start of this year when my tyre burst and I still needed to get to work. It's just under 5km commute so downloaded the C25k app to help, expecting to fly through the first few 'easy weeks'. Turns out it's not so easy.

Successfully completed week 1, starting wk2 tomorrow morning. I'm a but of a goal setter, so decided that if I can successfully complete this course and continue running three times a week until Easter, then I'm going to enter the London Marathon Ballot for 2020. Too much? Maybe, but it'll be a good motivator for me, and something I've always said I'd like to do one day, so why not now?

However... some helpful tips for this beginner would be great.

1/ Right now money is super tight (hence why I'm running not fixing my bike). What's the cheapest way to get the right running gear? I currently wear jeans, hoodie, and 10yr old trainers that are falling apart.

2/ Probably caused by the old shoes, and steep hills, I'm suffering with painful shinsplints after just 3runs. Any advice on how to recover quickly and reduce the pain?

Thanks in advance 👍

[mafee Graduate]

Sainsbury's have a cheapish range and you could always try e-bay - there must be loads of people who bought kit that they didn't use!

[Elibee48]

Hey bless you and good goals. Went to primary yesterday has a huge range of gym/aerobic wear! Try to get yourself some comfortable joggers or yoga pants to run in from there and maybe some trainers they are under £10 I’m sure. Not the best for long runs but defiantly will help more than the ones your using. Also eBay for trainer soles for running/gym should be under £5 and help with the impact! Good luck

[Elibee48 in reply to Elibee48]

Primark ^^

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and includes links to stretches which I believe are essential after every run.

Stay slow, especially if your footwear is suspect. Running on grass or treadmill, avoiding heelstriking and keeping footfall under your body not out in front all reduce the impact of running.

Enjoy your journey.

[BlueBessie]

Hey, I got my running trainers from primark for 3 pounds. They were on sale, meant to be 12 but have to keep an eye open and find a bargin. I went to go outdoors this week, and got puma running bottoms for 12 pound and a top for 6 both on sale. They did have a good sale on trainers but sports direct usually have good slaes through the year.

[Bike_and_Run Graduate]

Thanks everyone for your suggestions.

I'm nervous to buy cheap trainers as all the 'professional' advice suggests running shoes are the one area you shouldn't compromise on. However... In light of what y'all have said, I've just ordered a £10 pair of running trainers from Decathlon. They should see me through the C25K and then if I do keep it up and get a Marathon place, I'll invest in a decent pair after Easter.

Fingers crossed a new pair of shoes, albeit cheap and cheerful, will be better for me than my current ones, even if only for a couple months.