Tips for a newbie

[Hjy_x]

Hey folks!

Just completed wk2 run 1 this morning, I’m looking on some tips from some of you more seasoned professionals! I’ve been running on the treadmill as I don’t feel confident enough for outside just yet. I raise the incline ever so slightly and walk at speed 5-5.5 and usually run/jog at 6.5. Wondering if there’s any particular stretches I should be doing or anything that I should be incorporating whilst using the treadmill? Also I’m finding just listening to music can be a bit boring, I’ve started covering the time on the treadmill because I tend to clock watch but I’m finding it boring staring at a wall 😂 any tips on keeping my mind occupied? I’m not sure I could concentrate on a podcast.

Thanks so much ❤️

[Jogunlikely Graduate]

Hiya

Why don't you feel confident going outside? I urge you to, its wonderful The scenery, the wind in your hair and sun (hopefully) on your face. I've even braved the rain which was nowhere near as bad as i thought it would be. When i did use the dreadmill I would the cover the clock too lol

I used to listen to the confessions podcasts from Radio 2 as they are humourous and you've no idea whats coming so do concentrate on them. Now they have finished i just listen to the whatever program is on Radio 2 at the time. I don't like running to just music so the combination of chatting and music is good.

Other people recommend audio books, as it encourages them to run so they get to finish the story.

You could also use the time to work on your running posture especially if you have a mirror or window reflection in front of you.

So my advice is try lots of different things until you find the one that works for you. And that may well change over time.

Happy running x

[Hjy_x in reply to Jogunlikely]

I want to try and get outside as I get further into the course, I live right on a Main Street so there’s not many good routes nearby. Thanks for the advice

[Jogunlikely Graduate in reply to Hjy_x]

At the weekend I get in my car to go somewhere nice. Not environmentally friendly I know x

[Hjy_x in reply to Jogunlikely]

Gonna try my local parkrun eventually I think it’s a wee bit far but it’s about 5/6k so it’s probably a good shout to try x

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.

[ladyofcastile]

Things that helped me were: the best running shoes I could afford, professionally fitted. Planks, planks, planks. Yoga and a set of weights. Get nutrition right and in a way that works for you. If you know it's going to hurt and you want to push yourself to train your body to delay the lactic acid build up, paracetamol before hand. Deep freeze, even before start running. If you are getting tired, act like you are going to stop, but don't actually stop, keep going really slow, it will help you relax. Keep your shoulders back and your chest open. It will help you breathe. Inhale deeply through your nose, exhale in 2 tempos if it feels comfortable enough. Making a bit of noise helps me focus on my breathing. Don't look how far you have to go if you tend to panic, keep your eyes no more than 10 meters away. Include some HIIT: 30 seconds giving your all (it can be done on the treadmill, elliptic, static bike, running outside, jumping, whatever) rest, repeat this pattern 4 times in a session, 3 times a week. This is very effective to improve your general fitness in a very short time. Respect resting days, your body is doing repairs. Some protein powder (cookies and cream flavour because it mix well with everything) as I am not good with protein. Green tea/ fluids fast once a week to remove excess fluid build up. And cake and chocolate because I like it and what the Hell.

[Hjy_x in reply to ladyofcastile]

Brilliant advice thank you so much 😊x

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

I make up daft poems - search here under “mantra” and you’ll find quite a few of them 😄