Hello

[Hurzer]

Hip replacement 2017, stopped smoking December 2020, now I'm here. What next?

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Get some proper running shoes, a good sports bra if you are a lady (sorry can't tell), download the podcasts and off you go!

I expect one of the admin will be along in a minute with the formal advice and links etc...

Best of luck, keep us posted.

[Hurzer in reply to Curlygurly2]

Thanks Curlygurly! I should have been clearer. By 'what next' I kind of meant what will I do after the c25k, sorry about that! I'm on my 3rd week. Breathing is a problem for this heavy ex smoker, so my legs say crack on while my chest says stop! Any breathing exercise advice will be very much welcome. By the way, Hurzer is a nickname, and I'm a bloke!

[Curlygurly2 Graduate in reply to Hurzer]

When you've graduated admin will fill you in on consolidation etc. If you're struggling to breath you're going too fast, slow right down until you can have a conversation. If you run alone sing or something!

[Hurzer in reply to Curlygurly2]

Ah, that's a great idea. I'd heard the advice about being able to have a conversation but running alone as I do, I didn't even think of it. Singing will fit the bill perfectly! But look out anyone near me, because it aint pretty!!!

[SueAppleRun Graduate in reply to Hurzer]

If breathing is the problem slow those legs down, when you can run and speak clearly a whole sentence you can run and enjoy it 14 months smoke free here and it takes time but the breathing does get easier, take some long slow breaths and over time you will find that wheeze you may have had will have gone

[Rhirhi85 Graduate]

Your breathing will come with time, I stopped smoking in june 2020 and for the first 6 months i didn't notice a massive difference on my runs and then Jan this year something just clicked, I went from always going at a steady plod to being able to run further and faster, smoking does so much damage as we all know and your lungs just need some time to catch up to your legs

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

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.

When you announce your graduation I will send you a link to a guide to post C25k running.

If you cannot wait, it is sitting in the FAQ Posts, which you will find in the Pinned Posts.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hurzer in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks!