Starting Running!

[nickmac209]

Given up the fags - now to start to regain my fitness!
Have started with a 3 mile run twice this week. Not ran for years and years.
Legs are completely buggered but it does feel good. Anyone got any suggestions on the best way to get fit and healthy within the time constraints of a busy life?

[rog007]

Just keep doing what you're doing if you can fit it in and it's working. Other than that try to ensure you get your five a day and drop alcohol intake. Jobs a gudun!

[Bing o]

I also gave up fags and booze and started running. My tip would be top enter a few proper runs - it gives you something to train for when its cold, wet and windy, and should keep you disciplined. Maybe start off with a 10 or 12km run and set yourself a target time. Ideally, find some mates to either train with, or compete against. I went from 3kms to 14kms in about 6 weeks, so it does get easier - you just need to get some miles in the legs.

Oh, and also work on leg strength - runners world has some good exercises for core and glute strength om their website.

[nickmac209]

Cheers guys. Not sure about competitions! I am using the dog as a reason for getting out - instead of a walk he now gets a run which he seems to love. So it fits in nicely with the daily routine/ chores. I am running cross country and lanes as am fortunate enough to live in the countryside. I will hopefully also be adding one or two cycle (6 - 12miles) rides into the mix as well - cycling I find really easy but the running is a whole different matter!

[alfa pint]

Just keep going at it!

3 miles is a decent distance initially. Couple of times a week will work really really well and you'll soon be able to increase both your pace and the distance you cover.

Best to try and vary it a bit so that you're not doing the same run all the time, especially if it's a bit flat. You need hills ideally, although you can also try upping your pace in the middle of your run.

Stretching properly afterwards will help a little with the pain, but more importantly help prevent injuries (groin stretch / abductors is often ignored and is v important) I have no pain or stiffness at all now after a normal run, it's only when I go for something much longer that I'll feel it a day or two after.