Running Woes

I really need some encouragement when it comes to my running, and am wondering if any of you ladies have been in the place where I am right now.

At the risk of embarrassing myself, I'm going to admit that I cannot run at all! I am awful - I have never been able to run. I get winded so easily, and always get that awful cramp in my side. I've always wanted to learn but have honestly been too scared of failure to try.

However, back when I was still a lurker (ha!) I saw something that Julz33 posted about a program that helps you learn how to run (I think it's called Couch Potato to 2K in 2 Months). I thought I'd give it a try, and now 'm 3 weeks into the program but find it physically hard, but I can do it.

The thing is, I'm not overweight and I'm in decent shape. I normally do an hour on the elliptical 4-5 times a week at a good speed on a high resistance level, but running for some reason really gets me. It seems ridiculous (and embarrassing) that I can do an hour on the elliptical but only 3-4 mins running at a time before I want to quit.

I want to stick with this couch potato to 2K program - so far so good, but I just hope that it will pay off in the end.
Is there light at the end of the tunnel?

Re: Running Woes

first off, stop using that elliptical. swith to the treadmill and the bicycle. The elliptical is too easy, which is why you are having trouble with running. Ever stop the elliptical and it keeps on moving? that's because the machine is ding alot of the work for you. the stair climber is also good.

start slow, if you get a cramp, keep going! they usually go away very soon after you get them if you keep up the pace.

if you run then walk, then run that is good too. soon you will be running more than walking then running even faster.

try to run 2-3 times a week for just 20-30 minutes at a time.

good luck!

Re: Running Woes

get a good pair of running shoes.

I recommend the Runners edge in Farmingdale.

I am at the point in my running (i was the same as you - in good shape just not good at running) where I dont get winded, but my legs arent up there and my feet hurt when I run. A new pair of CORRECT shoes really helps.

Good Luck!

Re: Running Woes

The beginning is the hardest. I've been running off-and-on for 7 years now. The key is to do what you can, but still push yourself. I would run on a track. Set goals for yourself. If I were starting from scratch I might make my goal to run 2 laps around the track. Do that for a week. Then move up to 3 laps. And so on. Running outside is harder than running on a machine, but it gives you more results. And make sure you have great music to motivate you. Once you have achieved a certain distance on the track, map out a route you can use in your neighborhood so it isn't as boring.

Here are rules I live by:

1. Your supposed to get out of breath, it's aerobic.

2. Don't stop just because I'm tired. I set my goal therefore I will finish it.

3. Run at least 3-4 hours after eating ---otherwise major cramp.

4. Wait for that second wind, it may be tough in the beginning of the run, but it will get better.

5. Run at least 3-5 days per week. make up for lost miles if I'm only running 3 days.

6. Get a good pair of sneakers for your feet. I've have New Balance because I'm flat-footed and need more support.

Hope this helps.

As NIKE says---Just do it!!! It'll becaome easier with itme.

Re: Running Woes

Ladies -

Thank you for those words of encouragement! It makes sense that the elliptical is easier because it does most of the work for me! I'm assuming that the amount of calories it says you burn isn't accurate too!

I'm glad to hear that things will get better as I continue - when I started and found it more difficult that I thought, it just seemed like I'll never better.

I am 'running' 3-5 days a week and every week i build up a little more and run longer. Now I need to go get a good pair of shoes - I'd say mine are past their prime.

Again, ladies, thank you! You've motivated me even more now!