fitness

[mfcbun]

i have been a weights man in the gym rather than cardio for the last few years but fancied a change. i have just started w3r2 and im finding myself puffing quite a lot (gave up smoking 7 weeks ago today), will i find it gets easier as i continue?

[Alaiyo Graduate]

First off, congrats on doing weights before, and also taking on this new challenge. And big huge kudos on quitting smoking! If you have the time and inclination, I hope you continue to do both - it is one of the very best ways to get into great shape.

Having done both as well, I can attest that you are using your body quite differently in C25K than lifting weights. Don't worry if you find it very challenging. It is supposed to be challenging.

Chances are very good that your cardiovascular fitness will improve, and you won't be huffing and puffing so much as you go. That said, you may be running too fast for your current cardiovascular fitness level. You should be doing a "light jog", ideally still able to bark out a few words if needed. Since you recently quit smoking, this may take a little longer for you than most to get the hang of, but you can definitely do it. It does get "easier" - although you will face new challenges later in the program.

[Elizadolots Graduate]

Hello and well done for stopping smoking!! That's great!

I still huff and puff now, just for longer than what I did in the beginning!

It does get easier, and suprisingly quickly as well. Good luck and keep at it, it really is a great program.

[mfcbun Graduate]

thank you both for your kind words and wisdom, they will give me an extra puff of breath (i hope!)

[didntrunthat Graduate]

When I started I found it was my lungs that held me back rather than my legs. I wasn't a smoker previously and although I hadn't been involved in sports in the few years previous due to health issues I had got back to walking to work which involved covering quite a few miles a week.

I'd say your lungs will catch up in the next few weeks, but you may also find that you have to slow down a bit to complete the longer distance runs.

[happierswimming Graduate]

I can't say it gets easier because the programme is designed to push you. If you're finding it hard, slow down your run but try to keep a brisk walk going during the walking parts. That's great for building stamina. You could also adopt that same pace for everyday walking. The walk should be just short of breaking into a trot and that means the run is just a bit faster. Also, aim for flat routes as far as possible during the 9 weeks. You're doing very well and congratulations on stopping smoking