New Runner

britlew22
britlew22 Posts: 2
edited December 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
Hello!
(Also, apologies if there are similar, older posts!)
Several years ago when I first started college, I had a roommate that ran every single morning. I eventually joined in with her and was able to run a couple of miles a day and at a pretty good clip. I am now realizing that I've totally lost ALL of my running stamina and I'd really like to get back into it, I just don't know how. I've been walking just about every day, but it doesn't seem to have made much of a difference. So a couple of questions (other tips are certainly more than welcome!!!) :

1. What's the best way to start running for a non-runner who can't make it very far at all (a block? maybe two?)
2. How many days a week should it be worked into an exercise schedule ( I do a lot of other stuff too--karate, aerobics etc.)
3. How important are running shoes? (I'm thinking something along the lines of the special fit Fleet Feet style sneakers...)

Thanks for your help!

Replies

  • PittShkr
    PittShkr Posts: 1,000 Member
    1) C25K

    2) 3x/week

    3) extremely


    End Thread!
  • morkiemama
    morkiemama Posts: 894 Member
    1) C25K

    2) 3x/week

    3) extremely


    End Thread!

    Beat me to it :) All of this^
  • vade43113
    vade43113 Posts: 836 Member
    This program works....http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

    and answers most of your questions, and according to the people I just asked.... (same shoe question earlier today) they are super important, and you should get at least the first pair professorially fitted
  • PittShkr
    PittShkr Posts: 1,000 Member
    This program works....http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

    and answers most of your questions, and according to the people I just asked.... (same shoe question earlier today) they are super important, and you should get at least the first pair professorially fitted

    1) C25K

    2) 3x/week

    3) extremely


    End Thread!
  • bratleen
    bratleen Posts: 60 Member
    Try the couch to 5k program, if there is a running group in your area check with them about beginners programs. On Long Island, the Greater Long Island Running Club just started their beginner program last night.
  • vade43113
    vade43113 Posts: 836 Member
    This program works....http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

    and answers most of your questions, and according to the people I just asked.... (same shoe question earlier today) they are super important, and you should get at least the first pair professorially fitted

    1) C25K

    2) 3x/week

    3) extremely


    End Thread!

    I know, you just beat me to it....
  • joannaengel
    joannaengel Posts: 22
    1) C25K

    2) 3x/week

    3) extremely


    End Thread!

    Make sure you go for a walk even on your rest days. Go to a proper running store to get fitted for shoes. Not all shoes are made the same and just because they sound cool doesn't mean they work for you. A running store will likely have runners working there that will look at your stride, etc and be able to give you the best options.
  • LilRedRooster
    LilRedRooster Posts: 1,421 Member
    You don't have to follow a specific program. When I started running again, I would alternate between walking and running (usually something like running 2-5mins and walking 1min), and after a bit, I just ran longer. But when I say run, I primarily mean jog, because in the beginning speed is NOT your friend; endurance is your best friend when you're just getting into a running base. I just followed what my body was cuing, though you can go with the C25K, if you need rules to follow. ;)

    Like someone else suggested, 3 times a week is a good way to begin. I usually just do every other day, and call it good. Gives me a rest, so I don't feel like I"m not enjoying it. You can add more as you go along, if you want.

    Go buy running shoes. Very helpful. Head to a store, preferably one with a treadmill so they can analyze your gait, and invest in a good pair. They make a world of difference in the beginning.
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