Hello Everyone, just wanted to introduce myself and hopefully learn from others going through a similar experience.
I have a lot of weight to lose (approx 5 stone 😱) and today was my first attempt at run 1. Wow. That first jog (if you can call it that) - lots of body parts moving in unfortunate directions but worst of all was the pain where my leg meets my foot (sorry don’t know the technical term) and don’t mean my ankle. Struggled through it but got there in the end and feeling a little more inspired but could really use some tips for first week to push through and stick at it if anyone can help?? Thanks in advance 😀
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Littlegem2107
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Well done for getting out there. That’s the hardest part. I know what you mean about wobbly bits! 😂 DiscoRunner has a link to a Japanese video on YouTube about slow jogging. It certainly helped me to get going. Just take it nice and slowly, and keep in touch here. This group is fab! ❤️
Well done - W1R1 is tough I’m still early days too but it does get easier. The forum is so encouraging with loads of great posts on advice for us newbies. As MuddledGardner said Discorunner has a link to running slow. Really helpful.
It helps a lot if you’re well hydrated especially the day before your next run, post stretches will help ease the aches and just go slow. Walking will probably be faster than your run at this stage. Keep us posted! Happy running 🏃🏼♀️
I’m assuming that if you are female you have a good supportive bra. It makes a massive difference.
But we have other wobbles in other places too..... you may not feel comfortable to start with but Lycra is amazing. Some good high waisted leggings hold things in place, you can wear baggy shorts over the top if you don’t want to wear them just as leggings. Honestly, it may feel like everyone is looking at you and judging your size or what you are wearing but they are not. They have barely even noticed you at all, and if they have they probably wish they could do the same.
Like others have said, take it slow and ensure you drink enough water (including on non-running days). Stick to the plan, don’t try to push yourself harder than it says and never run two days in a row in the first 9-12 months. Also, the right footwear is really important.
Be aware also that running by itself will cause you to lose some fat but not necessarily weight as you will gain muscle. With your weight loss target running is a good thing to do but it won’t address the weight issue by itself: however, it will help as long as you are also eating properly etc. Having said that, I found that when I started running I found myself wanting more healthy food and less stodge. Not sure why - maybe I felt the difference when I was running.
Unfortunately, my first week was pretty painful, I had those same pains in my legs and in my lower back. The good news is that the pain subsides... for me, it was completely gone before I started week 3.
I'm no expert, but stretch before and after your run.
Go slow, very slow.
Find somewhere flat for your first couple of weeks.
Put some ice on the problem area after the run.
If it's too painful, try walking faster rather than running until your legs get used to it.
Good luck with it, stick at it. It's a great journey.
Hi! Well done for getting out there and starting this - you are doing an amazing thing for your mind and your body!
I do indeed have the link to the Japanese slow jogging technique!! m.youtube.com/watch?v=9L2b2... It’s low impact, and is about a short stride, and landing more on the mid foot/ball of foot rather than on your heel (which is how we walk), but the heel strike may be the thing causing you pain. That first run is hard. Thought I would die! My other tip is your brisk walk can be faster than your run, so learning to go from fast walk to slow run was key for me. I love this slow running style and still run this way.
This is an incredible journey you’re embarking on, just stick at it, whatever your gremlins try and say to stop you! Very soon you’ll be running durations you can barely believe! And this is a very kind and supportive forum, so any questions, just post, and we’ll be here to help and cheer you on your way!
Great advice from the above posters. I too run the Japanese way slowly slowly! I’m 66 carrying excess baggage, and I swear by my Panache sports bra and Lycra leggings. My how that Lycra stretches. Reasonably priced stuff in M and S and Next also in Lidl and Aldi . When I started out I was running by the light of the moon with a head torch as I did not want anyone to see me, now in my Lycra and trusty Brooks I don’t care who sees me. I’m in my last week and hope to graduate on Friday, and has been said here many times, if I can do it any one can. There are some very inspiring posts on this forum, and I’ve found many posters to be most encouraging. Do post and let us know how you get on , we are all right behind you.
Thanks so much to everyone who has responded to my post, I really appreciate it. Was a bit nervous about posting but everyone has been really helpful and supportive, you all rock!!
I’m actually looking forward to run 2 on Wednesday (although I’m sure I’ll wonder what I was thinking a few minutes in)!
Fingers crossed I will make it safely round the reservoir without being harpooned or rolled back in and will not scare any dogs/dog walkers on my way (although can’t promise anything) 😬
Take care everyone, good luck with your runs this week and thanks again for taking the time to reply 😀
well done for joining us, I am just a bit infront on week4 after staggering/ shuffling my way through the runs. My advice as fellow novice is keep it slow, take it a run at a time dont look too far ahead, drink lots water, take your rest days and keep in touch on here as the more experienced runners are a wealth of advice and motivation 🐢🏃♀️
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First Park Run
Difficult run today 😕
First run completed!
First run today.
First run. Ouch
