First Run

[gwenpens]

W1R1 done this am. I have been doing other activities and thought I was reasonably fit for 61 (f). Turns out I found it hard but the recovery was quick. Breathing is a challenge for me but I took advice from here and went quite slowly. Fitbit told me I covered 4.25km during the run. Not sure if this is good or bad but it’s a yardstick for me to measure my own performance. That’s me started anyway.

[NannyOgg46 Graduate]

I've just finished week 5. Tbh week 1 was the worst. I think the tendency is to try to sprint on the runs. I struggle with the breathing and somehow it gets easier for me on the longer runs when I get a rhythm going. I'm running about 4km which hasn't really changed much since I started (first was 3.8km) so sounds like you're doing well to start with.

[gwenpens in reply to NannyOgg46]

Thank you for the advice Nannyogg46

[ele123 Graduate]

Well done 👏👏 I struggled with breathing but in week 3 or 4 I can’t remember exactly something just happened and I just started to breathe really well without even trying! My body just adjusted I guess so keep it going because you will get there too 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[gwenpens in reply to ele123]

That’s good to know ele123. Thank you the reply

[Couchphoenix Graduate]

Well done on completing your first run gwenpens 👏🏻👏🏻 it’s a great programme.

With regards to breathing, try not to overthink it, next time you’re out there take the running parts nice and slow, try to relax and take a nice deep breath in through your mouth then purse your lips slightly as you exhale, get this into a nice easy steady rhythm and you’ll find you won’t feel so out of breath as your taking in the oxygen you need. Imagine your body is like a machine and the oxygen your taking on board is your fuel.....hope this helps.....Good Luck 👍

[gwenpens in reply to Couchphoenix]

Thank you couchphoenix.. I’m taking this on board.

[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.

[gwenpens in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you. I feel great for having starty

[Returnagain Graduate]

Well done. I think we all have a tendency to overthink breathing. As has been said deep breaths in through the nose and out the mouth. I do this when I suddenly think I'm out of breath and it calms me down and breathing is much easier. Good luck and keep it up you can do it.