Newbie questions

[gog440]

Hi all

I am well overweight and have been doing slimming World to lose weight, and I have decided to do some exercise as well so started c to5k. I have done the first 2 runs of week one and I am struggling, I barely feel like I am moving in the runs but I am dying on my arse! I get horrible cramps in my calf, pain in my shins when running and since my last run on Monday I have had pain on the right of my groin. Monday I only managed to complete about half of the runs it was just too difficult.

I must be doing something wrong but I don't know what, I have some fairly decent running shoes, I was keeping hydrated, where I live isn't ideal for beginners running as there are quite a lot of fairly steep hills but I was trying to avoid driving somewhere to run as I know I won't stick to doing it

[Jonesycat Graduate]

Maybe C25K is too much too soon for you just now? When I decided to get fitter 4 years ago I started off trying to walk as briskly as possible every day or so for a couple of miles; believe me, this felt knackering at first. But after a couple of months or so it all started to feel much easier and when I felt ready I started C25K. Remember the old saying, 'walk before you can run' ...

Best of luck to you.

[gog440 in reply to Jonesycat]

I walk my dog the route I did for the run, I am fine doing that.

I was quite pleased with myself that I managed to run for the whole minute! No way I could have done that before I lost the 2 stone I have, I know that I just need to keep going and build up my stamina, the other thing is that my run was on tarmac pavements and I wonder if that was a bit too harsh on my body. Going to try running on the football field instead and see if it helps

[Jonesycat Graduate in reply to gog440]

It depends on how fast you're walking with the dog - by 'walking' I mean really powering along, arms pumping, really striding out and building up a good sweat.

And yes, a softer surface may help but bear in mind it will be a bit more uneven and so may put slightly more stress on your ankles. Worth a try though!

[Fatgirlslim19 Graduate]

First of all, well done for making a start on your health and fitness 👍

Jonesycat has some great advice - maybe just now the running is just a bit much for now. Walking will increase your strength and fitness and then once you feel ok doing this you could try C25K again. Definitely take it slow, sooo much slower than you think you need to, especially if you live in a hilly place. Your body has a lot of adjusting to do and it can't do it all at once.

You can do this though, believe in yourself!

[Bouncyshoes Graduate]

Hi gog440, I know it's tough! More experienced runners than I might tell you different - but considering your circumstances, why not try just walking for 30 minutes 3 times a week for a few weeks first. Absolutely drive to a flatter course because at this early stage you don't want to feel that even W1 is out of reach. Keep W1 as your interim goal, stick to SW because that really works and as the weight comes off and your body gets used to moving more revisit W1. If you have a groin strain don't try to exercise through the discomfort, just do what you can without pain and it will heal. This is a great forum and I know you will get support from other members. Have a look at Teddyboo52 another new member who has lost 8st and is on her c25k journey.

[gog440]

Oh well It doesnt matter for a while now, fell over a kids scooter in the garden and I have knackered my knee, can barely walk on it nevermind run.