Teething problems

sharky86

I'm looking to get into running as I see it as a cost effective way of getting fit, maybe losing a punt or two along the way, problem is I was never really that good at it! actually I just couldnt do it at all.

so far I've smoked nearly 73,000 benson and hedges prob a bit more:( 20 a day for last ten years plus some for drinking.. and suffer from asthma so ya can guess just how unfit I feel at the minute.

Would love some advise on any training tips for beginners if you have any?
Is it better for me to try run fast or run for distance or time? Do you have your playlist bpm in sync with your heartrate or footfall rate to take your mind of the shear pain:D

RacoonQueen

First and foremost. Get a decent pair of runners, after that just go out and run comfortably, don't push the speed, don't run further or for longer than you initially feel able. Just start to build up your base fitness and you can go from there. I know a lot of people on here used the Couch to 5k plan when they started running. If you think you need something like that to motivate you to keep going then that's probably something that is worth following. For me, I just started running, went out every or at least nearly every morning with my dogs and just ran for as long as I could keep going for, gradually I improved. The most important thing for me was that I didn't concentrate on times or distance from early on. I was running slow, but it didn't matter I was enjoying every second. My dogs usually tired long before me and I'd head home before one of them collapsed and died. :pac: It might be worth registering for a few races maybe a 5k thats in a couple of months time and a 10k that is about 2 months or so after that to help motivate you to keep going.

rainbow kirby

I'll second the recommendation of Couch to 5k, take it slow and enjoy yourself. You'll probably find that as you get into it, you'll want to smoke less because you'll see how it affects your running. In terms of shoes - go to a proper running shop and get some advice on what kind of shoes are suited to you. In Dublin, try Runways in Parnell Street, Amphibian King in Bray or Mick Dowling's shop in Terenure.

Music-wise - I just listen to stuff I like, I don't make any effort to match BPM, though I am a metalhead so most of my stuff is fairly fast-paced anyway.

I'd also agree with the suggestion to sign up for a race, there should be some kind of race close to you over the next few weeks/months, to be Dub-centric again I'll recommend the Rathfarnham 5k in early October. Having that date marked on your calendar is a bit of a motivator to push yourself out for a run when all you want to do is crash on your couch!

Now, here's a kick up the arse to get you out tomorrow.

RoyMcC

Sharky, the best advice you'll ever get is from Racoon Queen and Rainbow Kirby above. Take it. I'd just add that you should run with a smile though it won't always be easy. When you have a bad run then be assured that we all have them.

Good luck.

sharky86

in other words just get de hell out and start running:rolleyes: I'll have a gp on stand by.. thanks guys

RacoonQueen

sharky86 wrote: »

in other words just get de hell out and start running

Well, that'll certainly help.

entropi

And also in addition to the good advice given here already, i would reccommend a visit to your G.P. also...since you have had that smoking habit for a long time now it would be advisable to let the G.P. know your plans and see if they give the go-ahead (which they should) but as mentioned, take it easy at the start and build up at your own comfort levels. Dont be compelled to push harder because you may see someone running slightly faster, or feel the need to run while run down/ill etc. as it will only hinder progress.

Oh and finally, have a good time out there and good luck!!:D

nerraw1111

Great advice so far.

I'd recommend signing up for a race. It gives you a target to aim and a reason to get out the door in the evenings. Not wanting to embarrass myself in my first race, it was all the motivation I needed to train for it.

misty floyd

I came across a new thread in the log page: http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2055662712 (smoker to runner)

I found it motivational and I don't smoke.

Are you going to give up the smokes yourself sharky? Watch out for running with music..I don't know about you lot but when I listen to music I end up running too fast, depending on the song of course.

I'd take the advice about going to your GP if I was you.

sharky86

just coming into week 2 of taking Champix. Bloody great tablets highly recommend them! Defo had that problem with music went for 1 st run this morning. wasnt to bothered about distance as I've no real way of meauring it aimed to run at my own pace for 15 - 20 minutes if possible. got listening to 90's music which was way to fast and nearly had to call 999 for myself - I forgot what stiches feel like!!! OUCH!!

Think I have some time off work in two weeks I'll prob head to doc then just to be sure. I think age is defo on my side here tho I'm only 23 so should be ok heart wise hopefully

krankykitty

sharky86 wrote: »

wasnt to bothered about distance as I've no real way of meauring it

In case you are interested in measuring the distance, I find using Google Earth or Mapmyrun.com useful for that.

I am a new beginner to running as well and before I was using the Couch to 5k program I found it very hard to pace myself, I would end up bursting myself and then giving up. Would definitely recommend following a program such as that, I use the podcasts http://www.ullreys.com/robert/Podcasts/page6/page6.html The music is an accquired taste but as it's only for 30 mins or so it's bearable.

How Strange

sharky86 wrote: »

I've smoked nearly 73,000 benson and hedges prob a bit more:( 20 a day for last ten years plus some for drinking.. and suffer from asthma

My advice would be in this order:
1) Go see your GP and get an overall checkup
2) Get a decent pair of runners from a proper running store
3) Use the couch - 5k plan
4) Sign up for a 5k race in Oct/Nov
5) Take it easy - don't push yourself too hard. Listen to your body.
6) Enjoy it