I want to start running. I havent done any for ages so it needs to start gentle. I just need some clear advice

Question

Im just turning 50

Answer 1

Find a comfortable pair of shoes - running shoes would be best (check local Fleet Feet) They can set you up with shoes that suit the way your foot hits the ground.

And just run. Start off slow maybe running for 2-3 minutes, then walk for a minute and repeat. Try doing that for 20 mins a couple times a week. If it feels easy then either increase the duration of running to 30 mins. If you feel up to it, increase the 2-3 minutes to 5-6 and so on.

If you start to feel tired, stop. If you feel like somethingis bothering you either in your knees or feet, stop. There is always another day to run.

Hope that helps and welcome back. I keep a runner's blog if you're interested, see below

Answer 2

First find shoes you are comfortable with, preferably with a lot of cushion and padding. Then you could join an athletics club. In my athletics club, their is a senior group and their people that run who are 70! They deal with all running abilities. So my advice to you is join a athletics club.

Answer 3

Well, I think the first couple of things to consider are new trainers and perhaps a quick visit to the doctors (not psychologist, though after a bit you might wonder why not - running can be addictive and you'll wonder why you started again!).

The running shoes are important to protect your knees, and I would recommend going to a specialist running shop for a pair. They should be able to look at how you run and suggest a pair that suits how your feet land (some are cushioned and padded depending how your feet land) and ones that give the right support. So first stop running shop.

Second stop perhaps a quick trip to the doctor depending on how active you are, just in case you have any medical problems that might mean you have to take things easy.

Right so that is a couple of things to do before you put your running kit on.

When you go out, the trickiest part is leaving the house for the first time (you tend to get self concious and that lasts about as long as it takes to pass the last house where you know people), but just go for it, put running kit on and start jogging.

For the first couple of runs just take it easy and run for a few minutes then walk to get your breath back then run again. Perhaps look for a route that will take you about half an hour to go round - 3 to 4 miles (you can very the length of the route later if you want). Work at running for about the same distance untill you get your running fitness back and then start to explore other areas to run. Oh, make sure the route is safe - well lit for winter running and in safe areas (of course, you can get the car, bus or train to a nice area to run - localwoods etc are nice)

After your first run its likely your legs will hurt the next day, thats normal just rest a few days before your next run. You should run about 3 times a week and have days of rest.

You could get a friend to run with you - its nicer to talk as you go

Oh, last pieve of advice, enjoy it!

Answer 4

Good pair of running shoes - Asics are the best in my opinion. Get a specialist to examine your feet to see if you overpronate because you may need special shoes like me. It is really important to get the right type of shoes so you don't get injuries like me (shins splint sufferer)

Gradually build up mileage- don't expect to be able to run 5 miles flat out.

Eat at least 2 hours before running and drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Make sure you breathe properly whilst running.

Watch out for dogs whilst running!!!!

Good luck and i hope you enjoy running as much as i do!!!

Answer 5

Get yourself a decent, comfy pair of shoes to start off with. There's these t-shirts you can get with tiny holes in too. They make you less sweaty which is a bonus - you probably knew all that anyway though.

Seeing as you haven't done any for a while you'll need to build up your stamina again. Start of at whatever speed feels comfortable to you, whether it's slow/fast it doesn't really matter. The first week, maybe do 20min runs, and then increase the time by 10mins each week. It'll get easier and easier and then you'll be able to change your speed/distance/time to suit you.

Hope this helps