What's changed in my body after a few weeks of running?

Question

I've been doing a beginners running programme for a few weeks and have gone from really struggling to run for 2 mins, to running for 30 mins with just 1 min walking in the middle. Next week will be 30 mins non-stop!!!

What's changed in my body? Is the improvement down to my legs getting stronger? Is it a lung/heart thing???

Answer 1

Yes. All that and more. Good question though.

Answer 2

I judge more by speed and distance, but I started running again this spring and at first was exhausted after just a quarter mile, really having to catch my breath. Now I can do three miles, and I'm not really all that winded at the end. More drained.

I think the legs get used to the repetition, your lungs and heart become more efficient and you learn to get past "the wall."

I also mix in some speed running with my distances. Yesterday, I just did a mile (good time for me) but did six 100 yard dashes. I'm 38 and 200, so no lighweight. It just takes time and confidence. But I feel as healthy as I did at 22 now!

Answer 3

Great job! Your muscles have adapted to the exercise you're doing. Long distance runners have more slow twitch muscles which help them run longer. Sprinters have fast twitch muscles which only allow you to run short distances but very quickly. Just keep eating those carbohydrates because you need that energy to run for that period of time. Keep up the good work!

Answer 4

There's loads that have changed but mainly your stamina. When I irst started running I could only just do 2mins! Now I can do an hour (non-stop) and more if I really wanted. You'll notice now it takes longer for you to be short of breath and your legs don't hurt the next day :) I'd say mainly a lung heart thing but it is to do with your legs getting stronger as well.

Keep it up!