Want To Start Running, But Don't Know Where To Start...

[angi21]

Hi all, I'm 29 years old, probably haven't done any real exercise for about 8 or 9 years, but have a desire to start running to keep fit. I am 5'10" and 196 lbs. I have started eating healthily, but due to family commitments and also the cost, I want to avoid joining a gym. Also, I'd feel very self concious in a room full of people while I'm puffing and panting!

Would anyone have any advice on how I could begin gently, to ease myself back into the world of exercise? Would it be best to do the 5 minutes running, 5 minutes walking thing?

Any advise would be gratefully received!

Angie

[society]

Try walking briskly for a while before you start running or sprinting.

[factor-fiction]

Taking your weight into account I would build up your exercise routine gently. I'd start off with some long brisk walks, then move to jogging. When you start jogging it's a good idea to walk some of the time until you are ready to run for maybe 20-30 minutes

[237SJ]

There`s something on the NHS website called Couch To 5K which helps people get into running. I think there`s an app that can be downloaded.

[VHG]

Why not start walking locally.

Start by walking round the block a couple of time, then gradually extend the walk to include a local park, then do more roads, more parks, staying out longer each time, and build it up like that.

Once you have got used to walking then jog for short sections, gradually increasing the amount you jog.

DONT go at it hammer and tongs from the start or you will soon get fed up with it.

DONT join a gym as many people who join a gym get fed up after a while and stop going but still have to pay for their years membership.

Maybe go to the GP for a check up before starting your keep fit regime.

[angi21]

Thanks all! I have started walking to work in the mornings after dropping kids off at school, so covering about a mile in around 20 mins. Thanks 237SJ, I'll have a look at that! Thanks VHG, great suggestions!

[Stephen_G]

I hope you see this, angi21.

Get yourself to a proper Running Shop and have analysis on your running gait (Heel strike - mid-stance and toe-off). The Assistant will tell you what type of running shoe will be best for you.

I stress this a lot to poeple on here (I used to work in a Sporting Goods Shop and did 2½ years on the Footwear Department), but get PROPER running shoes and don't settle for something you might have already that's "Comfy." Proper running shoes will take breaking in like any shoe, but you'll benefit more. Your "Comfy" shoes will not help when you run, and will set you back. Walk in your "Comfy" shoes by all means.

[Brinjal]

Good on you. It's not easy to get into exercise so do take it gently and don't kill yourself on your first outings. Start with walking then run one lamp post walk two then gradually increase the run distance. My daughter at age 32 being 5'10 and a size 20 is now two years later a size 10 and competing in triathlons. She did eventually join a gym but has a whole new outlook on life so you can also change. Go for it.

[bookbinder]

Here's a magazine (just one among many) that might give you some tips:
http://www.runningfitnessmag.co.uk/

[angi21]

Thanks to all for the very good advice. Going to the sports shop on Thursday to get a good pair of running trainers! Wish me luck!! Angie.