24 replies to this topic

[sweetj]

I've added some jog/walk activity to my regimen - trying to step up the calorie burn. Problem is, my body isn’t a fan (achy legs, etc). I don’t think I’m pushing too hard, adding more running time each week. Currently, I’m jogging every other day, with a warm up, alternating 2 minutes jogging with 1 min walking for 30 minutes. I guess what I really want to know – does it get any easier? Do people actually LIKE to run? Can anyone present any light at the end of the tunnel?

[camelsrule]

Yes, it does get easier. I started back in July on Couch to 5k (C25k) and now I am on the last week. I can run 30 mins straight and enjoy it. I look forward to my runs. If you aren't doing it already, I really recommend C25K (http://www.coolrunni...2/2_3/181.shtml) it's a great way to increase your running while staying injury free.

[whnp]

It will get much easier. I used to run and now I cannot because of a knee injury but I can walk. I can walk a mile in 13 mins!

Make sure you have new running shoe and you need to go to a running store to be measured/fitted. Do not buy them at stores like ***** go to a speciality store. Your feet and legs will thank you.

You may want to see if the speciality running store has any training programs. It is really nice to run or walk with a group.

[sweetj]

Thankyou Camelsrule and Whnp - you've provided my light at the end of the tunnel - very helpful advice!!

[annie5]

Hey Ladies,

I am totally opposite about running. Every time I run I am chanting "I hate running". I have never really found that the running has gotten easier, I'm just able to run longer and faster.

That being said, running is the best exercise I have done to lose weight. I just did a 10km run and it was a major sense of accomplishment...but I still hate running! Haha!!

Since I started with a personal trainer, I don't get as many aches and pains when I run anymore, so maybe try doing some lunges and squats to strengthen your legs.

Good Luck!!

[sweetj]

Oh, Annie - I may adopt your chant! I hate running, I hate running, I hate running...

[CarrieinDE]

I think I love/hate it too. I'm like 66% love and 33% hate. I love the calorie burn and I love the sense of accomplishment you get when it's over. I love knowing that I can push my self a teeny bit more and see results. Most days/nights I will run 3 miles on the treadmill, and on a weekend will push for 4 or 5 miles. I've done a 10k -- it was the hardest thing I've ever done and one of the proudest moments of my life. I don't think I'm going to put more miles on and I don't run fast at all. Ok - my very first 5K I ran in 48 minutes -- I can now run it in about 35 minutes (I think). So you can get better at it. The key is to slow way down to like a shuffle until you get your breathing under control then slowly add some speed -- like every other week. DON'T PUSH!

[PishiCat]

I love the Couch to 5K...I got the App for my iphone and I am on the 2nd day, but i like that it coaches you through the walks/run.

Barbara

[sweetj]

Okay guys, finally went to a running specialty store and got fitted for some proper running shoes. Gonna try them out tonight - praying this is the key to enjoying the run! Working on Week 4 of the C25K. It's a slow process, since I tend to spend two weeks on each "week". Thanks for all of the advice - Wish me luck!!

[nancy5012]

I am just in the beginning stages of trying to jog - I won't call what I do "running"!! Right now everything I do is on a treadmill.

I started jogging 30 seconds (because that is all I could handle) and walk for 2 min. Last week I got up to jogging 2 minutes and walking 2 min and doing that for 30 min. total.

My question to you runners - how do you get that runners "stride"? I'm short - so my stride is not long, but how do you get the long stride?

I'm also glad to hear it gets a little easier!

[southerngirl48]

I'm in week 4 of c25k. I have never ever ever been a runner but I do enjoy being able to go outside and feel the calories being burned away. I use the cell phone app on my droid so it tells me when to stop and start. And I admit on the longer runs now I look at the time countdown and say ok 2 more minutes, 1more minute, etc. I'm still getting used to running but it's getting easier and I enjoy picturing myself as an athlete rather than a lumpy couch potato.

What helps me the most is to have a good pair of running shoes .. Mine are Asics and are gel filled so they are really comfortable. the other is to play music as I go so if I'm listening to a song it distracts me and makes the time go by faster.

I still have times when I get home late from work and don't go out like I should but I'm working on that.

[sweetj]

Jen Update - My new shoes have helped greatly with the shin strain. I am now on Week 5 of C25K and find myself looking forward to my runs. I certainly would rather get on the treadmill then do my yoga/weights/pilates workouts. I'm exausted when I get through and sweat like I didn't believe possible. Some days are better than others, but finishing each time is a rewarding feeling. So strange! Am I becoming a "runner"? Thanks for all of your support and helpful tips!

[sweetj]

Went out into "the real world" for the first time this weekend for my run. Until now, I've been sticking with 30 minutes on the treadmill. I ran three miles and did both better than I feared and worse than I hoped. My pace was pretty slow & I had to make a bathroom pitstop (drats!! Good thing I designed my route around a park with a bathroom!), but was thrilled that I survived and enjoyed getting outside. The C25K program is awesome, even if it took me a while to finish. Gonna try running the bike path next weekend!!

[dijarm]

i have to say i became a running fan. I love to challenge myself and I find it a great stress reliever. Not to mention it really melts the fat away! For anyone starting out, I have to agree to previous post....it's all about good shoes!!

[Curiouserandcuriouser]

I started running in November and I must say, I look forward to it now. You really should be going at a shuffle pace to get the miles logged. For me the light came on when I was "racing" my 7 year old and letting her win. I thought oh yeah, this is how fast I should be going. Totally changed the game for me. I'm up to 4 miles in about 40 minutes.

For shin pain, I suggest strengthening them by rotating the ankles 10 times in both directions and flexing the feet in both directions several times a day. (Saw that one on P90X)

[Storyteller Mark]

Running ( for me) becomes a sort of therapy. When I'm having a bad day I love to run it out. Lately its all about running on my lunch breaks. Also, if you have a metabolic max- or even a pedometer- its a great way to get in steps and vigorous activity. If Im inside, I love to play with inclines on the treadmill...sometimes if I want to push harder, I raise the incline really high so its difficult for a bit, then immedietly lower it to 0 and coast for a while. It feels like you are running down hill. Strangely enough, it feels like resting and running at the same time.

enjoy!! Great job on your running!

[nancy5012]

nancy5012, on 26 October 2011 - 08:39 AM, said:

I am just in the beginning stages of trying to jog - I won't call what I do "running"!! Right now everything I do is on a treadmill.

I started jogging 30 seconds (because that is all I could handle) and walk for 2 min. Last week I got up to jogging 2 minutes and walking 2 min and doing that for 30 min. total.

My question to you runners - how do you get that runners "stride"? I'm short - so my stride is not long, but how do you get the long stride?

I'm also glad to hear it gets a little easier!

The post above was me in October. I am sooooo happy to report that yesterday I was able to jog 2.25 miles straight through. I was slow, but I did not stop! I never thought I would be able to jog a mile, let alone more than 2. I think "5K" may actually be in my future.

[happineff]

nancy5012, on 06 March 2012 - 03:53 PM, said:

The post above was me in October. I am sooooo happy to report that yesterday I was able to jog 2.25 miles straight through. I was slow, but I did not stop! I never thought I would be able to jog a mile, let alone more than 2. I think "5K" may actually be in my future.

WOW! Nancy that is awesome to hear, you have made such amazing "strides" (gah! pun intended!) with your jogging! Like you, I started jogging and could only stand it for about 30 seconds at a time. I'm just starting to get to the point where I can jog for an entire song on my ipod before slowing to a walk (about 3-4 minutes). You inspire me! It makes me think, "Hey, if she can do it, I can do it too!"

[nancy5012]

Aww Hannah - thank you soo much!! I learned something over these months of trying to "run" - SLOW DOWN!!! I kept trying to increase my speed -which just tired me out sooner. When I slowed down I was able to last longer. Right now my average speed is about 4.5 mph - some people can walk at that pace!! But I know once I am able to jog a full 5K straight through (3.1 miles) I wlll work on speed.

On my alternate days I do sprints - 30 seconds of running as fast as I can (about 5.7 mph right now), then walking for 90 seconds. I do this for about 20 minutes. This has made a world of difference - my legs are stronger and I am able to handle the 4.5 mph on my jogging days much easier.

And - Hannah I saw that photo you posted on another thread with your new dress- girl you are looking FABULOUS!!! Congrats on getting into a new decade!!!

[sweetj]

Great job Nancy! I completely agree with the SLOW comment. I was stuck for the longest time about halfway through my C25K program, because I was running too fast. When I slowed down to a real slow jog, I was finally able to work up to a 30 minute run. I'm with Mark on his running therapy statement, especially when I get to run outdoors. I'm still running slow, and now focusing on adding mileage to my weekend long run (I'm up to 5 miles). Gonna run my first 5K race in two weeks!