Beginning the journey

[Mr_CouchPotato]

Hello, as the username suggests I am not very active... but decided on Sunday to start the couch to 5k programme. Went for a run Sunday night (to ensure social distancing of course) and had my second run last night. So early days, literally found an old pair of trainers jogging bottoms, got the hi vis/reflective vest out of the boot of the car and a head torch etc... at what point do you go serious and buy proper running shoes and all the gear? The first run killed me, and the second was equally as bad but I’ll still keep going!

[Granspeed Graduate]

Welcome to the forum. 😄👍 There is a pinned post by IannodaTruffe called FAQs that is an introduction to almost everything you need to know. One of the Mentors will post a link for you, I’m sure. Meanwhile my top tips would be 1) be sure to take a rest day between all runs, 2) drink plenty of water - steadily, every day, not just around run time, and 3) go slower than you think is right! You’re asking a big adjustment of your body, so acknowledge this & work with it.

Good shoes are important but other clothing doesn’t matter much (beware of addiction to fun colours, though 🤣). But I got to Week 4 before I needed to swap out of some old but comfy trainers. See IannodaTruffe’s post for more info.

And enjoy your running. 🎉👍

[Mr_CouchPotato Graduate in reply to Granspeed]

Thanks Granspeed appreciate the advice!

[Sordel]

My wife bought me running shoes about a week in because I got a nasty blister; I don't think I would have made the investment so early myself (too much likelihood of falling off the wagon) but I was really grateful to get into proper shoes early because I think they saved me a lot of pain. I got anti-blister socks as well, which are worth considering as an early purchase.

You'll probably get some “imposter syndrome” running around in fancy kit, but it beats physical discomfort any day.

[Mr_CouchPotato Graduate in reply to Sordel]

Thanks Sordel, that is what I am afraid off falling off the wagon too early, but sound advice about comfy shoes though.

[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.

[Mr_CouchPotato Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thankyou for the link IannodaTruffe