first run

[squirlart]

Completed day 1 run with my dog today. After a week or so of being unusually tired, I knew I needed to do something to get my energy back. I used to be fit as a teenager and in to my early 20s, but haven't exercised in a long time. It was hard! But i'm actually really excited to keep going. Any tips for maintaining energy, and perseverance?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started

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

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.

[squirlart in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks, that is definitely a handy piece of reading, and has got me even more up for this. Hopefully still this enthusiastic after a week or two!

[PMcL1966 Graduate]

First well done for getting off the couch and doing it. I would say the key is to stick to the plan and keep the jogging slow. It’s about completing each week and not how fast you can run. Don’t be despondent if you’re feeling tired after some of the longer runs. And don’t beat yourself up if you have to repeat a week if you feel you need to. Be kind to yourself and enjoy each time you complete a run. You’ll surprise yourself at what you will achieve.

[squirlart in reply to PMcL1966]

Excellent advice. Thankyou! im certain there will be times when I don't feel like it, and its so good to hear tips from people who have already done it.

[Learner49]

Hi I have just downloaded the app and joined the site. I am motivating myself to start tomorrow. I am scared of running as I have tried years ago and failed I found it so difficult. Also not very fit to start with but fingers crossed. Good luck on your journey

[squirlart in reply to Learner49]

Good luck to you too!

[nowster Graduate in reply to Learner49]

You'll probably find that very few of us were fit to start with. I wasn't.

I found week 1's runs hard too.

Take it at a slow pace. The title of the programme is misleading. The target is not to run 5km but being able to run or jog for 30 minutes continuously at whatever speed works for you.

[Learner49 in reply to nowster]

Thank you for that. I will be kind to myself and if need be repeat a week. I know after the first week I will feel more confident. 🏃‍♀️