Running Questions
Replies
-
Do you guys think the treadmill is easier/harder than running outside?
Wont be able to run outside ATLEAST for a few weeks. Still snow everywhere and too cold. I can't handle running in the cold. It hurts my chest way too bad.
How long have you guys been running for?
It clearly varies on the weather conditions, but all things being equal, the treadmill is much harder than running outside. And it is much easier to go faster outside (assuming you aren't running on really hilly courses). It is the way running is supposed to be. The treadmill is just an invention and a really poor substitute IMO. Get outdoors and experience the air and elements.
I do not like the treadmill (not a secret) and I won't go on it unless it is absolute desperation so others are probably better suited to answer your specific questions.0 -
Can one of you guys explain these running programs/plans?
What exactly is a c25k or a zombie??
Sorry for the noob questions. This is all new to my ears!
Go to the iOS or Google Play Store and type C25K and/or Zombies, Run 5K. It's basically interval training with walking/running. With C25K it tells you when to cool up, run, walk and cool down. It also tells you when you are starting, half way and ended.
0 -
Thanks for the response! I think I am doing just fine starting out. I was merely curious how long it would take to build up enough endurance for running long distances. Run, Run, RUN!!!
You'll be absolutely amazed at what your body can do, if you give it a chance. Be patient. Be persistent. And most importantly, be kind to yourself.
And do worry about folks dissing the treadmill. It's just a tool. Many elite runners utilize treadmills, particularly when the conditions outside are unsafe. I love to run outdoors and wish I could all the time, but ice and snow will usually drive me inside, except for weekend long runs. This quote sums up the silliness of treadmill bashing nicely:
"...the biomechanics, contrary to what many believe, are essentially the same as overground running. “We had to do a study on that [here] to convince the National Institutes of Health to fund some of our other work,” she told Runner’s World Newswire. “People have a bias against treadmill running--that real runners don’t do it, or that it changes your leg movements. It’s all garbage. We found some minor changes, but they weren’t the ones people expected, and they don’t affect anyone’s running biomechanics.”
From here: http://www.runnersworld.com/treadmills/biomechanics-expert-debunks-treadmill-running-myths
They say the runners can continue to improve for 7 years, so keep a very long term view of things and avoid rushing. Your cardiovascular system will improve much faster than your musculoskeletal system will. That means you need to give your tendons, ligaments and even your bones (yes, bones do grow and adapt!) time to adapt to the stress of running.
Good luck and have fun!0 -
Thanks for the response! I think I am doing just fine starting out. I was merely curious how long it would take to build up enough endurance for running long distances. Run, Run, RUN!!!
You'll be absolutely amazed at what your body can do, if you give it a chance. Be patient. Be persistent. And most importantly, be kind to yourself.
And do worry about folks dissing the treadmill. It's just a tool. Many elite runners utilize treadmills, particularly when the conditions outside are unsafe. I love to run outdoors and wish I could all the time, but ice and snow will usually drive me inside, except for weekend long runs. This quote sums up the silliness of treadmill bashing nicely:
"...the biomechanics, contrary to what many believe, are essentially the same as overground running. “We had to do a study on that [here] to convince the National Institutes of Health to fund some of our other work,” she told Runner’s World Newswire. “People have a bias against treadmill running--that real runners don’t do it, or that it changes your leg movements. It’s all garbage. We found some minor changes, but they weren’t the ones people expected, and they don’t affect anyone’s running biomechanics.”
From here: http://www.runnersworld.com/treadmills/biomechanics-expert-debunks-treadmill-running-myths
They say the runners can continue to improve for 7 years, so keep a very long term view of things and avoid rushing. Your cardiovascular system will improve much faster than your musculoskeletal system will. That means you need to give your tendons, ligaments and even your bones (yes, bones do grow and adapt!) time to adapt to the stress of running.
Good luck and have fun!
Great news that the 1% incline is mostly urban myth... since I don't usually set any incline when I run on treadmill, lol. thanks for sharing!0 -
I actually do use 1% incline! I find it more comfortable, believe it or not.
) 0 -
First rule of running for beginners, never compare yourself to another runner. Your life will be so much easier that way.
1) yes, usually. The more miles you run, the better you'll get at building endruance. But you want to keep it easy miles. Killing yourself running hard every run, burns you out and runs a higher risk of injury. Lots of factors will play into how quickly you build endurance.
2) See above. The more you run, and get accustomed to running the easier it gets to run longer.
A big tip to be able to run longer, is run slower. Too many beginners run too fast.
this is very true never compare...everyone acts just a little different..
again yes as a beginner SLOW is your friend..as a new person you shouldnt be worrying about speed work or hill work or any of that.
though i will reccomend setting a goal..enter a race and work towards a reasonable goal for that race..i.e. finishing0 -
Can one of you guys explain these running programs/plans?
What exactly is a c25k or a zombie??
Sorry for the noob questions. This is all new to my ears!
I have also followed the c25k (Couch-to-5K Running Plan). It is a plan to build up your stamina so you can run a 5k. Last year i started this program myself and went from not being able to run a 5k without walk breaks to running a 5K race (no walk breaks) in about 26 minutes (a personal best).
There are various apps for your smart phone (Zombie run, c25k etc.) and "podcasts" that you can use on your mp3 to tell you when you are supposed to run or walk during your run. I started with: http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml and found a podcast there called 'Podrunner: Intervals" (http://www.djsteveboy.com/1day25k.html) that I really like.
Another app I like to use to track activities is Endomondo (http://www.endomondo.com/). With it you can set up the app so you are running against yourself.
Like many others have posted, I just stick with water and the only supplements I take are my multivitamin and fish oil. I also find treadmill running too easy and prefer to street run. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to do much running since school started. Instead I have been trying to run up and down the stairs. I wonder how much my stamina has tapered off since I haven’t been running for so long.
Keep working at it and some days your run will be fantastic the next not so much. Something I saw that I think of when I have a bad run day. "No matter how slow you are you lapped the person on the couch". Keep running against your own time.
Hope that helps0 -
I find running outside is easier. once the weather clears up for you,you'll probably agree. It's way less boring as well. I started running 3 years ago. I started out with the couch-to-5k plan. I now run half marathons and want to start training for a full this year. Here is the link to couch-to-5k. http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml
I agree with coffee as an awesome supplement. :drinker: I also use protein powder isolate and drink shakeology.
Good luck to you. Feel free to add me as a friend.0 -
I'll add my two cents as one beginning runner to another. I say I'm a beginner even though I started over 2 years ago. I still feel I know virtually nothing about running so I'm always fascinated by threads like this; I learn something every time. I started while I was solidly in the "obese" category, now I'm merely overweight and my running is a little easier but it's still challenging. I started at about 14-15 minute miles (yes, that's probably technically jogging instead of running but it was all I could do) now I'm at about 10-1/2 minute miles (still slow but it's progress). I go from 3-5 miles about 2 days a week, and I can do the 3-5 miles without stopping (so as you can see, I'm still a true novice).
My small bit of advice to you is to keep a journal. You don't have to record every run, but occasionally record your progress, especially if you start using a Couch-to-5K program. Record your time, distance, how you felt, and anything funny/interesting that happened during your run. I have run many organized 5K races, so I also include the piece of paper with my number (i know there's probably a name for that but can't think of it), along with notes from the race. It's a fun and inspiring way to keep track of your progress.
Good luck!0 -
I will have to start logging my runs as well. I am glad I am not the only one learning from this thread!!!0
-
definitly running outside is a lot better..i hate the treadmil. its far to boring...
plus on long runs there is an almost zen like feeling when your pounding away on the road0 -
bump to read later!0
-
1. Yes after logging many miles, you will be able to go longer little at a time. Perhaps shoot for an increase of 10-15% mileage per week.
2. Hitting the wall is variable, but once you have a solid base built up nutrition plays the biggest role in this. I can't say a certain time where I hit the wall, because I have gone for over 3 hours w/o hitting and also hit it in less than 90 minutes.0 -
I like running any where...treadmill....or outside. I like the ability to compare speeds and change paces on the treadmill but I also like the fresh air and change of scenery outside. You will find that running outside will be an adjustment as slightly different muscles will be engaged.
Running came as a surprise to me...my 5th grade daughter started cross country 3 years ago. At the end of the season they had a parent/child run. The 2 miles nearly killed me. Decided that I was going to change that for the next year. Started a couch to 5k which really just prescribed running/walking at slow paces to engage the body and also build the aerobic capacity up. Using the treadmill was great for this because I would use the same slow pace every time, and I could gauge my improvements each time. Some of the couch to 5k weeks, I would repeat when I didn't think I was ready for the next week. Running really is so individual so it didn't phase me to repeat or skip ahead.
Anyway, 3 years later, my daughter is not doing cross country any more, but I am still running. I have built up my running so that I am running 25-30 miles a week (indoors or outdoors depending on time and safety). I am planning on running a half marathon on in March and a full in May.
I have also started using a heart rate monitor while running and when it is in 60-70% zone (sometimes this zone is a 9 min mile and sometimes it is a 10 min mile depends on incline, environment...etc), I think that I could run forever.
Good luck.0 -
I like running any where...treadmill....or outside. I like the ability to compare speeds and change paces on the treadmill but I also like the fresh air and change of scenery outside. You will find that running outside will be an adjustment as slightly different muscles will be engaged.
Running came as a surprise to me...my 5th grade daughter started cross country 3 years ago. At the end of the season they had a parent/child run. The 2 miles nearly killed me. Decided that I was going to change that for the next year. Started a couch to 5k which really just prescribed running/walking at slow paces to engage the body and also build the aerobic capacity up. Using the treadmill was great for this because I would use the same slow pace every time, and I could gauge my improvements each time. Some of the couch to 5k weeks, I would repeat when I didn't think I was ready for the next week. Running really is so individual so it didn't phase me to repeat or skip ahead.
Anyway, 3 years later, my daughter is not doing cross country any more, but I am still running. I have built up my running so that I am running 25-30 miles a week (indoors or outdoors depending on time and safety). I am planning on running a half marathon on in March and a full in May.
I have also started using a heart rate monitor while running and when it is in 60-70% zone (sometimes this zone is a 9 min mile and sometimes it is a 10 min mile depends on incline, environment...etc), I think that I could run forever.
Good luck.
Good response, thank you.
I plan on getting a HRM as soon as income tax return comes through. I think it will only help as well!!0 -
Let me put it to you this way - I've run 2 half marathons, (my 3rd will be in May) and one full marathon (my second will be in September) and I can't even run for more than 45 minutes on the treadmill.
It took me YEARS to really make running a routine mainly because I would get so frustrated with myself and give up. Don't do that!
Once I started consistently running, and following a plan, rather than just trying to GO, it got much easier! Couch to 5K is a great program for beginners and what I used to give me some guidance.
I'll be honest - I've been running for almost 2 full years now and running on the treadmill never gets easier (for me). I can always run faster and longer outside than I can on the treadmill. I use the treadmill as more of a "mental training" aspect, as opposed to actually using to train for any kind of distance.
Don't worry about speed or comparing yourself to someone else. Use them as motivation, and to give yourself goals but don't ever beat yourself up because someone else is faster than you.0 -
Suggest not comparing yourself to other runners. Compare your results to your own previous results. You will see improvement.
I keep a log of my runs. And I steadily am trying to improve against my previous workouts. For instance, if I do a treadmill incline workout, I might increase speed, or increase incline by .5%.
I have a number of "go-to" treadmill workouts. I do 2 different incline workouts, and 2 different tempo workouts. I also ran 20 miles on a TM last week. Prefer to run outside, but I use TM to my advantage and try to push myself.
Good Luck!0 -
I think if you inserted word "treadmill" into any thread, on any topic, that thread would eventually devolve into a discussion about why people hate treadmills. It's like runner's street cred. lol! Maybe it's because I have done a fair amount of sitting meditation and have a high tolerance to "boredom", but it really don't see what the big deal is. Running outside is way, way better than running a treadmill, but it's not like you are going to die or something. Strap on some tunes, hop on, push start. No problem. Boredom is completely a mental fabrication. It isn't actually boring, we decide it is or it isn't. Don't believe everything your mind tells you. There is plenty to do on the TM. Check your form, watch some tv, check out the chicks/dudes at the gym, whatever. If you don't mind, it don't matter! lol!0
-
I know it's easier said that done, but definitely don't compare yourself to others, and don't feel like you have to run fast all the time. That was the key to me really getting into and sticking with running a year and a half ago when I started.
I used to not even be able to run for 5 minutes without stopping, and have now run a marathon (last month!).
That being said, sometimes I do have to stop and walk occasionally. My marathon went awesome - felt great the whole time, did walk through the aid stations so I could drink without spilling, but did the whole thing at an average pace of 10:11 minutes/mile. Then last weekend I went out for a 22 mile run, and it went horrible. Miles 18-22 I had to walk at least half of every mile. There are good days and bad days! But the point is that you stick with it and you will get better!
I generally start taking gels at about 8 miles, if I know I'm going to be going for a long time. If I'm just going for a 10-12 miler, I've found I don't really need them anymore. But will still take Gatorade or other sports drinks if I'm in a race setting!
Good job getting started! You will get there!
And there really is no shame in walking a bit during a run. It took me awhile to realize that - but now I am comfortable considering myself a "runner" even if I walk occasionally.0 -
Wow! This whole thread has been so helpful. I have never heard of 10/1 for distance runs. I have not been able to get pass 5 miles. I am going to try this tonight. I thought it was a mental block coz I went from jogging outdoors to the treadmill. I am hating the treadmill. Great advice, here 0
-
Do you guys think the treadmill is easier/harder than running outside?
Wont be able to run outside ATLEAST for a few weeks. Still snow everywhere and too cold. I can't handle running in the cold. It hurts my chest way too bad.
How long have you guys been running for?
It's a lot easier to run the hampster wheel. Put the incline up a point or so and it will help add in some difficulty. At 9 minutes a mile, even for one, you're pounding hard, good for you. I'm a bit slower, granted... I haven't run since August.
Speed will come with time and conditioning, distance will come with conditioning. I can run a 5k without feeling like hell man, granted, my heart rate over the run is an interesting curve, but I feel strong the whole time. I've been doing 5ks for a little bit, but not a lot.
Just take it easy for a bit, you have to build up your legs, otherwise you can fall victim to some injuries.0 -
Brandon:
Running a tread mill is different than running on hard dirt. You should start running for 10 to 20 minutes if you can at the pace you are comfortable with. The incline should be set at 1.5 for you to start. This will help you run better to offset the dip in the machine. As for the rest build up to what you want and just run. Look at my running charts on here. I am a old man and I can out run my kids any day. But I have been running forever. Take it slow and bump it up when you are ready but slowly!0 -
Thanks for the responses everyone. I wish there was a way to sticky this thread. I guess I can add it to my favorites???
What exactly do the gel's do??0 -
Thanks for the responses everyone. I wish there was a way to sticky this thread. I guess I can add it to my favorites???
What exactly do the gel's do??
Gels are simply quick-digesting carbs and electrolytes - think of them like super concentrated gatorade with the consistency of the inside of a jelly donut. They are unnecessary for workouts <2hr, but to each their own. A year ago, I would take them if I ran ~5mi and now I don't take them at all with no noticeable difference.0 -
I figured it's all in your head.
When I race quads, some people swear by having some gatorade mixed in their camelbaks. I can't do it. Makes me sick. I will just stick with water. Thanks!!!0
Categories
- All Categories
- 1.4M Health, Wellness and Goals
- 393.4K Introduce Yourself
- 43.8K Getting Started
- 260.2K Health and Weight Loss
- 175.9K Food and Nutrition
- 47.4K Recipes
- 232.5K Fitness and Exercise
- 427 Sleep, Mindfulness and Overall Wellness
- 6.5K Goal: Maintaining Weight
- 8.5K Goal: Gaining Weight and Body Building
- 153K Motivation and Support
- 8K Challenges
- 1.3K Debate Club
- 96.3K Chit-Chat
- 2.5K Fun and Games
- 3.7K MyFitnessPal Information
- 24 News and Announcements
- 1.1K Feature Suggestions and Ideas
- 2.6K MyFitnessPal Tech Support Questions