Couch to 5k Running - Part Four Beginners Running

VestanPance

Don't give a toss about what anyone else thinks. If you can't do that then run early morning. Generally you'll find the only other folk out are other runners and the odd dog walker.

Personally I would never recommend a treadmill. They are deathly dull. Running outside is always better than the treadmill, plus if you are new to running you can use simple tricks to help build your run fitness up, like running between lampposts and walking between the next set and repeat. Plus it's an expensive item your really don't need.

With summer approaching with clothes you're aiming for comfort, not fashion. I'd recommend a proper running t-shirt rather than a cotton t-shirt. For women if you don't like shorts and having your legs on show most running brands will do leggings/tights. Depending on your build a good sports bra would be must buy too. With clothes you want comfort and to avoid chaffing.

barbarawright

You can get track suit trousers for about £10 if you can't bring yourself to wear shorts or leggings. I wear baggy knee length shorts and an ordinary cotton t-shirt. I know proper running gear is better but I just don't go fast enough for cotton to be a problem... If you haven't got running shoes, wear ordinary trainers. Commit to three times a week for a month and you'll definitely see an improvement. You probably won't be running 5k but even running for 5 minutes is great if you find a minute hard at first (I did). As soon as you're sure you're going to stick with it, go to a running shop and get proper shoes. I wouldn't do that at first because you need to feel comfortable running in order to try them out. Also, they're more expensive than trainers and if you don't stick with it, they'll be wasted as they won't be great for walking in.

Good luck - you'll love the sense of accomplishment. Don't worry about what people think. In fact they'll either be thinking 'Good for her for having a go' or 'I wish I had the guts to get out there and try'

vegasvisitor

For the trousers, if you won't wear shorts, what about a pair of running capris? I'm sure you can get karrimor ones or similar in sportsdirect.

I would also recommend buying a couple of proper running t-shirts. Decathlon have basic ones for about £4. It's not for speed, but they wick the sweat away, whereas cotton can feel damp. They also dry very quickly when washed so you don't need very many outfits.

Good luck with it. I started a couple of years ago and now regularly do parkrun which is a 5k every week. They're all over the place so maybe there is one near you. I also try to get out through the week (I'm a bit fair weather so less often in winter!), recently I've been doing 15-20k per week. I'm still slow but I plod away. Over 32mins for a 5k, but that has come down from about 40 mins when I first got to 5k. Persevere, it's worth it.

Kayalana99

I can't believe this thread is 14 pages long which I started and never got past week 2...well I'm on a fitness drive ATM have already completed day 1 but I am doing it indoors in my front room...I have two young children so it's hard for me to go out running and I know it's not the same but it's better then nothing!

Anyone else joining me

Lady_Bee

Hi Kayalana99, I'm doing it but I'm recording my progress on the 'All New MSE Running Club' thread.

Come on over