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Jogging newbie

izpants1
izpants1 Posts: 2
edited February 23 in Fitness and Exercise
Hello, lady interested in jogging here.
I am new to getting fit. Though I have lost about 20 pounds so far (60 to go) I have done it without exercising AT ALL. I know, terrible.
Anyway, I just got a fitbit and am really into tracking my activity. I started using a stepper indoors and now I have been jogging indoors too. Sounds stupid, but if I do it for about an hour I get incredibly worn out and sweaty so it must be doing something.

What I reallllly want to do is go jogging outside. But I have severe mental health problems which mean I am scared of most people and what they might be saying about me or going to say to me.

Did anyone else start off jogging/running really unconfident (is that word?) but now loves it? What did you do? I thought about starting walking and jogging in intervals to get me into it. Is this a good way to do it? And what should I wear on my feet. Fancy trainers or just any old pair?

Sorry if these are stupid questions but I just really want to say that I am a jogger, it seems like such a fun exercise and something to be proud of myself for. Gets me out of the house too.

Replies

  • aarar
    aarar Posts: 684 Member
    If you're feeling insecure as a newer runner, try going very early in the morning. Also get fitted for proper shoes; that is so important.

    Congrats on your weight loss so far!
  • emmaxbon
    emmaxbon Posts: 123 Member
    I was very unconfident when I started. I went out very early and used a quiet area where I knew there wouldn't be too many people. Eventually you get used to it and it doesn't bother you about other people. The first time I ran past someone I was so embarrassed but they didn't even notice me lol

    Have you looked at the C25K programme? There are loads of apps or training programmes about that will get you from walking for a minute up to 5k running in 8 weeks. I started at end of March this year and today I ran 4.4 miles. I couldn't have done it without the 5k runner app I used.

    Get out there and good luck!
  • sloseph
    sloseph Posts: 157 Member
    i was worried when i first started, i thought i'd look like a right odd ball running down the street at my size then stopping after a minute but it turns out once you actually get out the door and start doing it you forget all about that

    i've found that when i'm running with my headphones it i just get in my own little bubble and don't think about anyone else

    if your really worried about other people then go for a run really early in the morning when no one else is around

    as for special kit all you need is a good pair of running shoes that will suit the way you run, if you go to a local running store they will be able to help you with that
  • rduhlir
    rduhlir Posts: 3,550 Member
    Find a running group. I say this because running groups have this aura about them that radiate into everyone who joins. Check with your local running stores or running club and see if they have some beginner running groups. The running world is extremely inviting to all...shoot, the president of my running club is a wheelchair runner and he is just awesome person.

    You can also maybe talk a friend into running with you, that might ease some of your concerns a bit. Having someone to run with and talk to while running will do a number of things, most of all you will be able to police each other in making sure you are keeping a slow and easy pace.
  • mmerry5
    mmerry5 Posts: 69 Member
    I think MANY new joggers are not confident and feel very uncomfortable at first, myself included. I only jogged inside on my treadmill for nearly a year before I decided to try running outside. I was lucky as my daughter was my inspiration for running and she ran with me the first few times, which helped me. Maybe you have someone who could go with you? Also, running early is great advice. Not as many cars or people out early. Each time you run outside you will get more and more comfortable with it. I love running now and really don’t even think much about it. I still run a lot on my treadmill because I run so early it’s usually dark outside. It’s only around this time of year that I run outside more and I love running outside for the change of scenery. I’ve found the people you do meet during a run are very friendly. Many just smile and wave. Runners truly appreciate other runners. So believe me, they are not judging you! They are routing you on in their heads!
    Oh, and definitely get good running sneakers!
  • izpants1
    izpants1 Posts: 2
    All good advice, thanks so much guys!
    Early morning runs it is then! And a pair of running shoes. I'm on a budget though. :/
  • Granada88
    Granada88 Posts: 40 Member
    All really good advice. I just wanted to say good luck with your training. I got hooked back in 1993. I love it! Enjoy the ride!
  • veganbettie
    veganbettie Posts: 701 Member
    and remember everyone starts somewhere!!!!!! Try not to think about it, focus on you!
This discussion has been closed.

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