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I'm new to running and clean eating

SmallBodyBigHeart
SmallBodyBigHeart Posts: 112
edited December 2024 in Health and Weight Loss
Next week I will be my first time that I've ever gone for a run! I'm excited and nervous at the same time and I have many question. I'm new to this so please forgive my if some of my question are somewhat "silly".

1.) How many day a wek should I run?
2.) My goal is to slim my body down but get toned at the same time, what other exercises should I incorporate into my workout regimen. (I really want to slim my thighs down)
3.) How can I avoid gaining water weight from running?
4.) I plan on running early in the morning, Should I eat before or after I run?


I also want to start eating clean, but the only bad thing is that I'm on a tight budget. What are some inexpensive clean food?

Replies

  • gregpack
    gregpack Posts: 426 Member
    If you have not run before you may want to look at a program called "couch to 5K". There is a website and apps which will have youn running 5 K in a matter of weeks.

    Resistance training better known as " weight lifting" is probably the most useful thing you can do to tone your body. A basic program of a few heavy lifts will get you the most overall muscle tone. Look at the stronglifts 5x5 or starting strength programs.

    As far as eating, a little exprimentantion is in order. Many people prefer to eat a little something, a banana or apple, before a run.
  • 416runner
    416runner Posts: 159
    If you are just starting out, you should find a beginner plan online - many people have had success with the Couch to 5k (C25K) plan which has an app you can download. It's a program that will ease you into running by alternating walking and running. Without a plan, it 's easy to get wrapped up in the excitement and go out too hard too soon, and you 're at risk of injury if you do. Three times a week or so should be fine when you are starting out.

    You don't need to eat anything radically different to fuel your runs at this point. Personally I need to eat first thing in the morning but I know runners who prefer an empty stomach. Experiment a bit, and see what works for you.
  • ProjectTae
    ProjectTae Posts: 434 Member
    bump
  • gogophers
    gogophers Posts: 190 Member
    (3) shouldn't be a consideration whatsoever unless you're planning on needing to weigh in for some sort of competition.

    As for what to eat, you should eat something that has protein after you do any sort of high intensity exercise. I like nuts. I played football in school and we were all told to keep almonds in our lockers. We were told that you should almost force feed yourself after physical activity as you won't want to eat, but your body needs to burn calories for the next several hours.

    For inexpensive food, I generally recommend fruits, vegetables, and chicken breast.
  • SmallBodyBigHeart
    SmallBodyBigHeart Posts: 112
    Bump
  • SmallBodyBigHeart
    SmallBodyBigHeart Posts: 112
    Just got to couch to 5K app..I'm super excited!
  • byrdamy
    byrdamy Posts: 40
    I can tell you from someone who has NEVER ran unless being chased, that the C25K program works. I have gradually worked my way up to week 4, although I have been running for two months, on and off with my trainer. He is the one who started me running, I couldn't run a block without stopping and I am not considerably overweight, I just couldn't do it, couldn't breathe and feet felt like they would break off.

    I am now to the point where I could physically keep going but mentally I battle it, I mean BATTLE!!! I am looking for distractions now maybe some audio or something.

    I would invest in some decent shoes, stick with 3 days a week the first few months, eat something small, if necessary.

    Good luck!!

    Edited to add, I eat clean as well. I stick to lots of veggies from curb market, chicken and turkey meat.
  • NikkiSmo
    NikkiSmo Posts: 180 Member
    I'm on week 7 and it has been an AWESOME jump start to my weight loss journey. Good luck I'm signed up for my 1st EVER 5K in a week and a half, super excited and a little nervous.
  • SmallBodyBigHeart
    SmallBodyBigHeart Posts: 112
    Anymore adivice?
This discussion has been closed.

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