Should I do C25k from the beginning again? - Couch to 5K

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Should I do C25k from the beginning again?

Soozc25k profile image
Soozc25kGraduate
7 Replies

I developed shingles early September and had no energy or mojo until recently. For the last 11 days I’ve been doing leg strengthening exercises planning on picking up running again from 1st December (so, yes, I should have asked this question before now 🤭)

Do you think I should start the C25k programme again from the start, or should I just set off and run, pacing myself on how I feel?

BTW, I’d graduated in March 2019, running every other day from the March lockdown, 2 to 3 times a week before that. I’m healthy otherwise, 66 years old.

Your views really appreciated

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Soozc25k profile image
Soozc25k
Graduate
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7 Replies
AlMorr profile image
AlMorrAmbassadorGraduate

If you have not been off running for more than two weeks you should be able to run normally, however, start your running gently and see how you feel, a popular week for graduates who have not ran for a little while is week 3, but most importantly start running slowly and see how it goes. 😊 🏃🏾

Soozc25k profile image
Soozc25kGraduate in reply toAlMorr

Thank you for that, I’ve not run since September, so I’m guessing it’s best to start the programme again. I’d rather do that than hit problems by doing too much too soon. That Shingles has a lot to answer for!!

AlMorr profile image
AlMorrAmbassadorGraduate in reply toSoozc25k

Sorry about the Shingles, I always thought that Shingles was only a thing that older people got, no, I got Shingles when I was 49, the tennis player Andy Murray got Shingles when he was in his 20's, I was told by my doctor I wouldn't get it again which so far I haven't, I also got a inoculation for it as well, I just hope that you will never get Shingles again.

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

As stated in the guide to the plan, healthunlocked.com/couchto5... you lose no significant condition in the first two weeks of non running.

After that loss of condition is gradual.

All any of us can do after a lay off is to go out and see what we can comfortably manage, then build back up gently, using C25k or something similar as a guide to weekly increase.

Always safer to err on the side of caution.

Mbubbles profile image
MbubblesGraduate

How horrible for you! I’ve not had shingles myself but know that it really knocks the stuffing out of you. I’m no expert, but I would concur that you should take it steady and see what you can manage. You may surprise yourself. Good luck!😊

Speedy60 profile image
Speedy60Graduate

I've had shingles. It's horrible, take it easy. I would go out without any tech, just have a trot round, see how you feel and take it from there. No pressure.

Good luck

Pinkpig20 profile image
Pinkpig20Graduate

Start where you feel comfortable. My mum has had shingles and was not good at all, but also being older it affected her more. I’m sure your fitness will not take long to return. 😀

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