Restarting the programme after a looooong break

[JulieJustMe]

Just started this again, after not being able to run for several months due to lungs and knee problems. I have also hit perimenopause and struggling to keep my weight down. It's hard to keep an optimistic attitude but I will try!

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

Welcome! We get lots of returners here-you’ve done it before and you know you can get there. You’ll have skills and experience that will help you thorough this time. Really good luck to you!

There’s a brilliant little guide to the programme here with lots of helpful hints and tips.  Well worth a read.  Most important is keeping it slow and steady at a pace where you can talk in full sentences without gasping.  Most of us go too fast! Recovery days between runs are absolutely essential too.

healthunlocked.com/couchto5....

It’s worth celebrating every run you do as a positive. Even if you’re finding it a bit of a grind, you’re doing something great for your body and you’ll soon be where you want to be.

You mention knee and lung issues. Have you had any medical input? You might want to think about strength and flex exercises to support your joints as you run again. Our sister forum is here with loads of ideas

healthunlocked.com/strength...

Really good luck! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[JulieJustMe in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Thank you for al the links! Yes, it is disheartening to think that I ran 2 half-marathons in my 30s and now can't even manage 3k! But as you say, I've done it before so can do it again, as long as I listen to my body. My lung problems were due to bronchitis (I also have asthma) which stayed with me for 2 months and any cardio really irritated my lungs. I am all recovered now, thankfully. And the knees I think are just getting old (and suffering from the half-marathon trainings - ha!) and I am doing weight strength training weekly to help keep my lower body strong. I also do some pilates every week to help with mobility and strength. Hopefully it all comes together!

[Nicky2603 Graduate]

me too with the perimenopause and weight gain. Done my first run yesterday after two years. It’s hard to believe I could run 5k, but I am determined to get there again. Good luck

[JulieJustMe in reply to Nicky2603]

You will get there - it's great to know that we are not alone, isn't it? 😉

[Shivani05 Graduate]

Welcome, Julie! I did my first run yesterday after nearly 4 years. Slow and steady, one run at a time, we can do this 🙂

[JulieJustMe in reply to Shivani05]

thank you 😊

[OldManRunning Graduate]

Good luck JulieJustMe, be positive, be slow, be smiley 😁

[JulieJustMe in reply to OldManRunning]

I will, thank you! 😀

[JeremiahObadiah Graduate]

Well done. You’ll enjoy the sense of achievement and returning ability to run.

Keep posting.

[JulieJustMe in reply to JeremiahObadiah]

I plan on it! 👍