Starting again

[TurbulentIndigo]

I got nearly to the end of the programme last year, all on a treadmill at the gym. Felt very proud and surprised - 63, post cancer, unfit). But then had a long period of ill health, then the gyms closed. Yesterday I started from the beginning - W1 R1 - running outside. But I’m not keen on running outside - I don’t feel very confident negotiating uneven pavements and obstacles. On the other hand I know I need to do this - running yesterday showed me how much fitness I’ve lost. Does anyone have any tips? Thank you.

[Magellan Graduate]

I go very early. At six there’s no need to dodge other people because there isn’t anyone. There’s a car park nearby that has practically the only flat land in my whole town, and when I want to have a run where I can relax my eyes and not worry about uneven pavements or kerbs I run in the car park. I don’t know if that’s something that would help you, but I hope you find something that does.

[TurbulentIndigo in reply to Magellan]

Thank you. I do go out early but will scope out car parks. Good tip!

[HappyNoodle Graduate]

Well done for getting back out there.

Have a look at your local park what are the paths/roads like there. Is there anywhere near you that has better pavements/paths? Even if you have to drive/cycle there.

Then if it looks too busy, go really early or much later in the evening.

I hated running outside because I didn’t want to be looked at. Even though I knew people have better things to do. But I need to do this for me and my family. I am repeating the whole thing because I was silly and injured myself trying to run fast after I graduated last time round. Two years it took to get over injury and decide to come back.

Remember why you want to do this hold it in your mind and find somewhere right for you.

Good luck 😍

[TurbulentIndigo in reply to HappyNoodle]

Gosh, thank you! I am doing this because my oncologist said it was the single best thing I could do to improve my chances (of cancer not recurring). I need to repeat this to myself.

[davelinks Graduate]

The only thing I can think of is to have a running buddy do c25k with you, got a partner or friend you could do it with? it gives some motivation.

I'm afraid there are quite a few obstacles when running outside, just try and not worry about them, but be aware, you will get used to it..

Some good ideas have been said by others, so consider those..

[timmothysmith01]

Comparing yourself to when you were exercising more frequently is simple. It's normal to notice a reduction in strength or endurance if you haven't worked out in the gym in a while.

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to timmothysmith01]

Sorry, you’ve accidentally found an old thread. The poster hasn’t been active in three years. I don’t think they’ll see your reply 😞