Running pattern?

[Purplerock53]

Hi, bit of a long one I'm afraid, but please bear with me 😀. I've just finished week 4 run 3. I'm a complete novice, a bit overweight and 53. I've really enjoyed the first 4 weeks and 2 runs and have managed really well until today. I went out as usual but not really in the mood for it this morning but went anyway. It was really weird, there were times when I felt really comfortable whilst running (jogging really slowly) but after I while I kept thinking that it felt like I was actually walking (but wasn't). Does that make sense? Does your running pattern change and get smoother as you progress through the weeks or am I imagining it? 🤔 Thanks in advance 🙂

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Sounds like you are doing just fine !

I think getting a consistent pace throughout your run is difficult , you will often find your pace varies on s run, usually starting off too fast 😁

[Maz1103 Graduate]

I am 56 and graduated last week and I know what you mean. Sometimes I switch off and wonder if I actually ran ok. Keep going. I think you naturally settle into your own pace/pattern and maybe that's why it gets easier because you don't have to concentrate on it as much.

[Frizzbomb67 Graduate]

I think you do get into your stride as the periods of running become longer and things begin to feel more comfortable. My husband commented that I look more like a runner now and less like a plodder 😂😂

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done

on your progress.

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.

Everything going on in our lives can impact on our performance as a runner. Restedness, hydration and nutrition are at the top of my list of variables that need to be optimised to enable enjoyable running.

Some runs are good, some are less so.....there is normally a reason.

Enjoy your journey.

[Jacqui1992 Graduate]

I felt exactly the same as you, I’m now on week 6 and will start run 2 of that tomorrow, I’m a slow jogger 🏃‍♀️ it feels like I’m walking but I’m definitely not ! Just keep at pace you’re comfortable with, it’s great that we are getting out there and doing our bit to keep moving (in our 50’s 👍) I’m 57 and have really enjoyed this journey.

You’re doing just great 👍 x

[WillsMum68 Graduate]

Hello Purplerock,

Do you listen to music when you’re running? I find that different songs really affect my pace.

I always start off with Paradise by George Ezra, it gets me into a nice gentle trot; anything else seems to be too fast and I’m knackered within minutes!

I worked out a while ago that anything with a 140bpm was good for me so I trawled the internet and made a playlist. Once I’m past the toxic ten (fifteen!) I’m off!

(Shake it Off by Taylor Swift and I Don’t See Them by Paul Heaton are two that make me feel like I’m flying!)

[Runnerdownunder Graduate in reply to WillsMum68]

Thanks, WillsMum68! I'm on Week 9 and have just put YouTube Music on my phone so I can put together a playlist of music to listen to while I'm running. Your suggestions are perfect.

[WillsMum68 Graduate in reply to Runnerdownunder]

I like to think I look all jaunty and perky, bobbing along to my tunes..... in reality I’m overweight and uncoordinated, arms and legs flailing in different directions and gasping for breath..... 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[Runnerdownunder Graduate in reply to WillsMum68]

I like to think I'm the same! But in my 60s, it's probably all in my head

[WillsMum68 Graduate in reply to Runnerdownunder]

We shouldn’t worry really, we don’t have to look at ourselves...... it’s the other people we should feel sorry for! 🤣

[Hidden]

Perfect sense. I am 59 and finding a slow jog is ok but definitely having ups and downs on motivation. Some of the runs are daunting and I’ve stayed on a run for 3 repeats to consolidate. Then I am ready to move on. I think the running pattern becomes more smooth s as your muscles cope better and when they aren’t yelling at you you feel that you aren’t running at all.

If that makes sense?

[Maddeeee]

I am 65 & only on week 3 but struggling with my knees & shins.. I am definitely not out of breath but I have been suffering pain. My chiropractor has given me advice to take it slowly - my foot wear is correct (with ergonomic insoles fitted). But I didn't think to put them in my trainers until the pain started. I have to say doing the stretches before & after the run & using ice packs.. The pain is getting easier.. I guess I have found not giving up is my answer. Sorry it was long winded but thought others might benifit from my story. 😉

[KayBee1000 Graduate in reply to Maddeeee]

Hi Maddeeee, if your knees are still a bit painful it might be worth trying a pair of knee supports. I bought these from Amazon; you must make sure to measure properly and therefore buy the correct size, but they make all the difference as to whether I get knee pain or not. Hope that helps.

amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B07...

[Maddeeee in reply to KayBee1000]

Hi KayBee1000

Many thanks for your prompt reply.. I will definitely take a look & measure up 👍

[KayBee1000 Graduate in reply to Maddeeee]

No probs, I hope they help, knee pain is the worst!

[Hidden in reply to Maddeeee]

Thanks- I certainly did. Sounds just like my experience.