I want to start running, how should i start as i'm quite unfit?

Question

running isn't really my thing but i need some exercise that i can do any time, any where, any weather, and i'm really quite unfit and i can't buy special trainers, i just have to do with what i got, so how can i start so i don't wear my self out or give up after one day, how long should i run for, how fast, how do i make it enjoyable, any advice would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Lots of really good advice already.

Also add core exercises to any walking/running program you develop for yourself.

Answer 2

Well, actually, you probably shouldn't start running right away. Start with walking. Start doing it every day at least for 10 to 15 minutes. Then slowly work up to longer amounts of time (try and save up for better shoes too, it really makes a difference). Eventually try to start jogging for bits of times during your walks, for example, walk rapidly for 5 minutes then jog for a minute or two. Don't try to start running right away or you'll probably just hurt yourself. Running should be the last step in your exercise routine.

Also, if it's a rainy day and you can't go outside, my favorite exercise is dancing like a madwoman in my living room to music! You can burn some serious calories that way!

Good luck!

Answer 3

Well, try running small amounts to begin with, gradually upping your time.

For example, start off by ten minutes a day, or running to a certain place and back, then do 20 minutes a day when you feel ready.

If your quite unfit you need to set your metabolism rate higher than it is. Don't worry about that though, for now just focus on running, jogging, skipping is very good aswell. To make it more enjoyable, bring an ipod or your phone and listen to music in headphones or whatever you feel comfortable. Try to eat more healthily. Not saying go on a diet, just add more vegetables, fruits to your eating styles and less chocolate.

Hope this helps!

(:

x  

Answer 4

I am just starting to run.  The best advice I got was to start out run a little way's then walk a little.  Slowly you start running more than you walk.  You build up pretty quickly.

Answer 5

There are a few things I do to make my longer runs more enjoyable....I run on a path that's way out in the middle of nowhere, and the scenery alone def. adds to the experience.  And before my run, i'll take just a couple tokes off some potent pine to get my mind right.  And finally and most importantly: Some good tunes!  The combination of Nature, Good Dope, and Music makes running something to look forward to!  Just make sure if you're going to be driving to the trail, that you burn AFTER you arrive!  Be Responsible!  

Answer 6

the distance and speed doesn't really matter in the beginning.  try starting off with a REALLY light jog around the park nonstop for 30-40 minutes? most important thing is not stopping, jog slower if you have to but try not to stop completely. after about a week or two, you can try increasing your pace.

to make it fun, you should bring friends along.  pick a pace that's comfortable enough so your friends and you can enjoy a conversation.  as long as you dont stop jogging, you'll build endurance and eventually be able to run at a pace that will be very beneficial to you.

after running for awhile, you'll develope the runner's high n feel that running won't be so bad at all b/c you'll get this stimulation when u run.  

Answer 7

You need to start with walking, then walk faster and faster each time you go out, until you feel up to running. I would start with 1 mile, and work your way up from there. Listen to your body, it will let you know what it's ready for.

Answer 8

You could run suicides that are not enjoyable at all but extremely quick and effective (sprint ten yards run touch ground sprint back,touch ground, sprint 20 yards, touch ground, sprint back, touch ground, sprint 30 yards touch ground, sprint back, touch ground, and you're done...

If you want to start out slow and work up to workouts like suicides, you should start swimming.... its a good overall workout, or if you can't do that ride a bike around your neighborhood... Pick-up football or kickball games would be good as well... Just playing catch (baseball and football) is good too because you have to move to get grounders or catch the football... You could also do some yoga stuff which i don't really know much about but I guess you have got to be pretty flexible for it....

If none of that is really YOU then ask the question again and put in more details and I'd be happy to help you....

Good luck!!!

Answer 9

I would just start walking... in your area, or in a Mall weather permitting, etc.  start at any pace, for any amount of time.

A pedometer attached to your pants can help, usually Walmart is quite inexpensive.  It tells you -according to your weight and steps -

the amount/distance you walk each day... instruction on the package.  Also park far from where you are shopping, that also helps you to walk farther, take steps instead of elevator etc.  there are many things you can do, be creative.  Just don't start to over do at the beginning, you will get hurt or just quit, it's not worth it, start slow, and build up....

good luck