Hi, I’m stuck on week 1, run1. I cannot overcome my fear of going out and run. I used to run a lot but after my marriage collapsed , 4 years ago, I stopped and put on so much weight. I feel awful and totally ashamed I’ve let myself down. Now, I’m petrified to run and to be seen running.
Anyone felt like this at some point in their journey? Any tips? 😕
Loads have, it is not an uncommon fear, but walk and run it shows you have strength mentally, people may look and stare, but most will be looking and thinking wow somebody is actually bucking the trend and looking after their health, the other runners will look at you and remember where they started and be impressed that you have joined the club, get out there and show the world you will not settle for an ordinary life, that you can be a better fitter person.
Thank you for your kind words ❤️💪
I'm sure many of us have felt like that, Minou. I know I did. And I know my lovely young future Daughter in Law felt much the same at 26. I addressed my wish to hide by going out very early in the morning when I would see fewer people.
Reading from people in here about those older/younger, fitter/less fit, lighter/heavier than me helped me to get things in perspective. Also my own thoughts about seeing other people out running - how I envy those who are making it loook easy but ADMIRE those who are having to work at it. What courage and strength of character they must have.
You, too, have that strength, or how are you posting in here because of your wish to change things.
I'm sorry about the break up of your marriage - it's a brutal time - but you are clearly ready to take control and we will all be here to support you as you do it.
Good luck. Keep sharing.
Thank you so much for the kibd words. ❤️💪
as T2runner rightly says, half of the people that see you running wish they were running as well, and the other half are envious of you running.
But I had similar anxieties in the beginning. It does fade but can be hard to overcome.
My strategy at the time was to a) run early mornings, b) get my partner to accompany me for the first few runs, c) seek out less trodden trails.
But that self-consciousness and anxiety does fade quite quickly as you start to benefit from that famous runners high, that makes you just feel so happy after running that you don’t want to miss that feeling.
So the first step out the door is the hardest one. It gets easier after that.
Sending you loads of good vibes to make those first steps easier.
Thank you so much for your kind words! 💪❤️
Hi Minouminette
Life often throws some pretty crap curved balls at us and they often make us afraid, ashamed and loads of other negative feelings. But you know what you’ve taken the very first step if you ran years ago and you’ve decided to come back there must be something you valued in it and you to think about it.
I bet your bottom dollar there will be older, less fit and equally as frightened folk as you are now on this forum.
Some folk walk the C25k programme just to get started on walking and then move up to running.
Go early, go off peak, if need be go to an area where no one knows you, do whatever you need for you to be comfortable to start.
Seriously, when I started years ago I ran in my back garden for the first runs because I figured no one would see me.
Most people are kind and always impressed that you’re going out to improve your fitness. Frankly most people don’t even see you as they’re dealing with their own stuff.
In all my time running or learning to run I’ve not what once had a negative comment, it’s only ever been positive.
You’ve been brave enough to post about your fears, so please use that same bravery and just try W1 R1 and let us know how you get on.
We are with you every step silently wishing you the best
Thank you so much for your kind, motivating words! I’ll keep you posted 💪
Just come back from my run, so looking out now for yours. You'll do it, when you doubt this place makes you believe. The nice social media place in existence. Good luck
Stuck on week 4
Why am I stuck!!
Stuck in a week 7 rut 
I’m stuck 
Stuck
