Running help

tayusuki

So, I enjoy walking and the idea of running, but it isn't something I often do.

Reason being, my chest will hurt after running for 1-2 minutes. It stops shortly after I cease running (1-2 minutes), but I know any kinda pain is no bueno. I really want to increase my endurance though.

So, have any of you had this issue and were able to overcome it? Is it something that goes away with time? My muscle strength is pretty good, so I've been trying to improve my cardiovascular and it never goes well for this reason (however I used to dance fine with no issues -- only ever running really). Help!

pomegranatecloud

Slow down. Consider starting with a walk/run program like Couch to 5k.

lorrpb

Chest pain is not normal. Pls get checked by Doctor.

tayusuki

pomegranatecloud wrote: »

Slow down. Consider starting with a walk/run program like Couch to 5k.

I just did small spurts and stopped any time I felt discomfort. I'll take a look into this program!!

lorrpb wrote: »

Chest pain is not normal. Pls get checked by Doctor.

I've debated seeing a doctor. This has been something that has existed since I was a kid. I also can work up a sweat dancing without any physical struggles (and still suck at running haha). So I wondered if maybe my cardiovascular health is just that bad

BrianSharpe

Are you talking about actual chest pain (not good....see a doctor) or your lungs feeling like they're burning (slow down.....when you're building endurance most of your training should be at a conversational pace)

When I first started running I followed a very simple system. Walk 9 minutes and "run" (it was more like a slow shuffle) slowly for 1 minute, repeat at least 3 times so that you're getting a least 30 minutes in. After a couple of weeks or so (depends on how your fitness improves) 8 minutes walking, 2 minutes running then 7 minutes walking, 3 minutes running etc until you're running 10 minutes non-stop with a 1 minute walking break. After that it's up to you if you want to work your way up to longer running intervals (there are quite a few runners who use a run/walk method....google Jeff Galloway). Don't run on consecutive days, give your body time to recover as there are a lot of physiological adaptations going on.

Don't worry about speed at first, you're building your aerobic base.

Barring an underlying medical condition pretty much anyone who has the desire can become a runner. One of the great things about the sport is that runners come in all shapes, sizes and speeds - we do it for our own enjoyment.