Should I run?

[SLE-Warrior]

I was diagnosed with Lupus last year May 2019. Since I have been on medication my weight has been up and done. I was going to the gym and swimming but not constantly. My BMI had gone up was declared overweight. I registered to go on weight management at my local gym due to COVID-19 it has been suspended (which am a little upset about).

To get the point, I want to go running but I am scared and nervous. I do not have the right clothing such as shorts and a sports bra. What online stores would you recommend?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

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

Those who know your medical history can answer your question. Most of us are not medically qualified.

Enjoy your journey.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Welcome. There’s no reason why you can’t do this as you were ok with swimming and the gym.

Decathlon make some great running gear at very nice prices decathlon.co.uk/ but you may need to order early in the day as they’re limiting daily orders to maintain their delivery times.

The German supermarkets sometimes have really cheap, and really good quality, gear in the middle aisles... I think one may be due to have a running week.

Large supermarkets may have what you need to get started though, my daughter has some of the sports leggings from Tesco, which she loves. For tops I’d avoid anything cotton, so look for something lightweight and loose fitting to start with... supermarkets often have a gym/running top too.

I’m no expert on sports bras so hopefully someone here can help you with regards to fitting etc, but all of the above stores and more will have you covered... though there are also specialist places for these like Runderwear.

Have a read of the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and enjoy your journey. You can do this.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Loads of great gear online at all sorts of prices...the main thing to get right is your shoes...at one time.. we would recommend gait analysis, but currently that is not possible.

I, when I started, simply did the wet foot test.. and it worked for me. I found the right shoes and have stuck with that brand.

BUT, that is just my experience...I am not necessarily recommending it .

runnersworld.com/gear/a2080...

[MuddySluggerRuns]

Hi, I’m a fellow Sufferer, (I was diagnosed around 15+ years ago) and to answer your question YES go for it!

I know it’s nerve racking to begin with but give it a go, you have nothing to lose. When I started my C25K journey I was dreading it but I took it slow and now I am looking forward to the finish line. Not only do I feel better for it mentally but physically I’m having less flares and feeling much more positive. I feel fitter.

With regards to clothing, online- sports direct or somewhere or try the supermarkets you can get a pair of running leggings and a top or just try and T-shirt to begin with. Sports bra- try Debenhams, marks and Spencer’s (or wherever you normally go- get true to size). Trainers - I had my gait measured to help with less impact on my joints...although I’m sure a good pair of running trainers will help to begin with. Get your gait measured later.

I do hope u give it a go, there are so many reasons not to try it but there are even more to go for it! Good luck!

[SLE-Warrior in reply to MuddySluggerRuns]

Thank you for your kind words. I finally brought my running pack and Bluetooth headphones. I always wanted to go running but I was too scared. The plan is to build muscle and lose belly fat but still maintain my gluteus maximus.