Faced into Week 5....

[Learning_to_run]

I was worried, I don’t mind admitting. However with MJ in my ear, I thought it might just be ok. I focussed on completing R1 rather than pace and just let all those elegant, graceful and fast runners breeze past me (that can come later). At the end of the first 5 mins i felt like I could continue...and the same after the 2nd and 3rd 5 mins...I now feel the 2 x 8 mins might just be ok. My back is aching though so I did some Pilates to try to help. I guess my body is thinking “what the heck” and is not happy with me...knees (strap), feet (orthotics and Hoka) and now back (Pilates)....but I will do this 😄🥵💪🏃‍♀️🏆

[Mobiliseandmove]

Hi! It sounds like you’re dealing with a few pains/niggles/injuries there.

I’d definitely recommend some core and hip exercises to prevent back pain. Pilates might be a good way to do this, although I would suggest more core stability work than doing reps of core exercises.

Let me know what kind of exercises you’re doing in your Pilates to help with your back pain!😊

Adam

[Learning_to_run in reply to Mobiliseandmove]

Hi Adam -thanks so much for your reply. I have a rubbish core...can’t even balance on one leg for very long...although I’ve been working on that and getting much better. I also have a physio (from the foot problems) who said they were caused by poor core and standing badly with upper ribs compressed so I’ve got a bunch of exercises from him too! Re the back, I’m doing gentle stretches on the ground (opposite arm and leg) plus the bridge/lower one vertebra at a time exercise which is helping too. It’s hard when your body complains....I get that it’s because it hasn’t been asked to do this before...but I am seeing improvements (eg knee not hurting at the moment and feet much better)....thanks again...love this forum...everyone is so nice which is refreshing after all the meanness on social media.

[Mobiliseandmove in reply to Learning_to_run]

Definitely keep working on the balance - so glad you’re getting better with that already because it is sooooo important!!

Ok great! As for the back, the core exercises and hip strengthening will work wonders. Stretching is more of a quick-fix of pain relief for the back, so by all means use it to relieve any immediate tension, but keep working on that core and those hips!

If your physio hasn’t already recommended these exercises, I highly recommend a kneeling side plank and the bird-dog. Fantastic exercises for core stability!!

So pleased you’ve felt the pains easing off. Take care!

Adam

[Learning_to_run in reply to Mobiliseandmove]

Adam - thanks again. Yes, I’m doing bird dog, side plank and the fixed (non-dynamic) crunch. I have my 2 x 8 min runs today (W5R2) so hopefully it will be ok. Take care

[Mobiliseandmove in reply to Learning_to_run]

So pleased you're doing these 3 exercises, they are magnificent! How did your run go today?

[Learning_to_run in reply to Mobiliseandmove]

I did it! First 8 was good - felt like I had a bit left in the tank. The second 8 was v tough

[Mobiliseandmove in reply to Learning_to_run]

What do you think made it very tough?