Getting back into running

[dulcie]

I've decided to start running again. But it's been a while and I'm out of shape. In the past I was able to run a slow 10K (about an hour). I just really want to be able to run about 30-45 minutes again to keep myself in shape. I'll be on a treadmill at the gym for at least the next little while. I'm horrible at running outside on my own, I just stop when I get a little tired.

Any suggestions would be appreciated? Be specific, if you want, about how long to start out with or intervals etc.

[steph78]

I would like to get back running, too. After 9 months of pregnancy and 9 months of not exercising like I should because I'm stuck home with a baby and there's not a gym near here, I am seriously out of shape. It's time to do something. I have started this "couch to 5K" program before (in fact, I think a bunch of QLCers did it back a couple years ago):

http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

which is great if you're pretty out of shape and need to ease back into an exercise program.

I just acquired a jogging stroller for the munchkin, and now that it's starting to be nice cooler fall weather I am thinking of doing the cough to 5K thing again. It would be good for me - right now I can't run 1/4 mile without feeling super winded.

[dulcie]

Thanks steph
I took a look at the site and it seems about right for me!

[Bocheezu]

http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

Seems like a big jump from week 6 to week 7. You go from jogging no more than 3/4 mile at a time to 2.5. That's a huge difference. Breaking the distances up with walk breaks makes it way easier. Just seemed weird to me.

[allie1105]

Why not find a 5K in your area that is scheduled to occur in about 6 weeks, and sign up? This way, you have a goal so you kind of have to run, and its only 3.1 miles - half of the 10K you used to run. Besides, if you aren't quite ready for it when the time comes, you can always run and walk to the finish. If you used to do a 10K in about an hour before, that is about a 10 minute mile. You can probably finish the 5K in about 30 minutes if you start training for it.

Check this site for info on where to find a race in your area:
http://www.active.com/

Also, if you go to Nike.com and go to their menu, go to "Running" and then "Training." Under training, create a free account and add a running schedule. It will customize your schedule to your skill level.

Glad to hear someone is interested in getting into running. Running is the best!

[ywt]

Glad to hear someone is interested in getting into running. Running is the best!

I don't have anything to add that hasn't already been said, but I wanted to co-sign this.

I love running, but apparently this makes me "odd" to most of my co-workers that seem to view anything that isn't "lifting" as useless. Always great to see someone else that's just as into it.