Should I do C25k from the beginning again?

[Soozc25k]

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

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

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 Graduate in reply to AlMorr]

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 Ambassador Graduate in reply to Soozc25k]

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 Mentor]

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 Graduate]

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 Graduate]

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 Graduate]

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. 😀