Help

[Penguingirl1]

Ok so i started the couch to 5k last friday. I've done two runs with my second being so much better than my first so felt really really motivated. But since friday I've had really interrupted or little sleep and today I've woken with painful spots on my face and mouth ulcers both of which I've not suffered with for years! Am also feeling so lethargic and completely run down.The ONLY change to my life is starting the c25k. I'm thinking it's just my body's way of rebelling a bit. Is this normal? Any help and or encouragement would be gratefully received. X

[LostInWonderland20]

This may sound obvious.. but are you getting enough water and nutrients? Sounds like your body is telling you it needs something. More protein before or after a workout maybe??

[Penguingirl1 Graduate in reply to LostInWonderland20]

Thank you for replying

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

Your body may be reacting to physical activity, but your symptoms are not something I have ever heard of before.

Spots and ulcers are often a sign that you are generally run down. Perhaps you need to rest.

Do you eat a broad based, balanced diet?

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.

[Penguingirl1 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you so much for your help and pointers

[Downhillcol Graduate]

Yeah you sound run down or you have a lack of certain nutrients. Be sure to start off very slowly, barely faster than walking pace and if that’s to much then you need to go on some steady walks first. I felt good after my first run but I started off way to fast and now I’m suffering with shin splints. I know this sounds odd but check your toothpaste, does it have sodium laurel sulphate in? If so find a different toothpaste as that will make your ulcers worse. I suffered with mouth ulcers for many many years, and discovered that I have been using toothpaste with that in probably all my life last year, and they have stopped now!

[Penguingirl1 Graduate in reply to Downhillcol]

Thank you so much for your help

[SassyF Graduate]

Yeah I had some spots during the programme which was not normal for me, I did learn the importance of washing the sweat off my face soon after a run - which made the world of difference. Ulcers are the first sign I notice if I’m tired or run down. Drink the water, eat the vegetables and sleep when you feel you can. Your body will do it’s best to right itself if you give it what it needs.

[Penguingirl1 Graduate in reply to SassyF]

Thanks so much for your help x