How can I start running when I have such a disadvantage?
June 26th, 2009 | by DistanceRunner |thaDub asked:
I’d like to start running, however, I have one problem- I can’t run at all. I don’t think it’s a problem with motivation or endurance because I don’t have a problem pushing myself with other physical exertion. The problem is, I get debilitating cramps after running for a minute or so. It doesn’t matter how fast I’m going, if it’s a jog or more, it happens. How can I get myself used to running and start doing it on a regular basis if I can barely even get started?
I’d like to start running, however, I have one problem- I can’t run at all. I don’t think it’s a problem with motivation or endurance because I don’t have a problem pushing myself with other physical exertion. The problem is, I get debilitating cramps after running for a minute or so. It doesn’t matter how fast I’m going, if it’s a jog or more, it happens. How can I get myself used to running and start doing it on a regular basis if I can barely even get started?
Can anyone suggest any methods that have worked for them or a gentle routine that could help get me started?
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8 Responses to “How can I start running when I have such a disadvantage?”
By timeand2way on Jun 28, 2009 | Reply
I don’t have any medical proof, nor do I feel like looking it up. But I know what my firend did. He is a little larger and that is why he wanted to make the switch to running. While streching (properly) helps what he would do is set out to run at a slow pace for about as long as he was comfratable. The next time he would just strive to go a little longer. And repeated this 1-2 times a day. He said it really allowed him to ease into it. I suppose it may be worth a try.
If problems persist you should consider talking to a physician.
By NVAJacketFan on Jul 1, 2009 | Reply
That sounds intense.
Start off by walking. Walk 20 minutes. After a few days, start jogging in the middle of your walk for only 20 or 30 seconds, every 5 minutes to start. If you don’t the debilitating cramps, try jogging more often and try lengthening the jogging burst.
Best of Luck
By Richard F on Jul 4, 2009 | Reply
I have almost the same problem, and I **** it. Dr. Cooper says that you have to walk 6 days a week for three weeks increasing each week before you start jogging. When I was young, I ignored this. Now, I let myself go in the winter and each summer it is harder to start. I **** those cramps. Make sure you are well hydrated.
By xiang on Jul 6, 2009 | Reply
Strech and warm up and warm down properly.(basics to prevent injuries and muscle cramps)
I hope you don mind but do you have health problems(example high blood pressure or maybe just abit obese?)
For cases like the first consult a doctor. For cases like the second start by walking for maybe 10mins to 20mins(non stop) does not matter if it is just leisure walking. Then if you feel more confirdent proceed to light jogging with time(example 10-20mins)it can be as slow as walking but the important thing is to finish it. You can either increase the time running or jog slightly faster.
getting fit is a long process so don be hasty to see immmediate results, be patient and persevere.
Good Luck^^
By Jbuns on Jul 8, 2009 | Reply
I never thought I would be able to run. If I ran for 15 seconds I would be winded, get a stitch in my side and my legs would start cramping. I found an article called The Couch to 5K. I started it 3 weeks ago. It was very tough when I started but it builds you up slowly by alternating walking with jogging. In the beginning it’s more walking but you gradually increase the amount of jogging you do. 3 weeks ago, I could barely run for 15 seconds. Now I can run more than a 1/4 of a mile with none of the problems I previously had. It’s hard work but the feeling you get is so worth it. I run three times a week and keep a journal on coolrunning.com. I love this program. It is changing my life.
By Broncos on Jul 10, 2009 | Reply
first you can stretch if it helps you then basically what you want to do its walk first for about 5 minutes each time then slowly build up speed (it can be within the same day) also what you want to do is maintain that speed if you want to slow down then do it slowly. the easiest way to get a cramp is to run really fast then start walking right away
By Courtney on Jul 13, 2009 | Reply
Stretch and take a asprin.
By blah on Jul 13, 2009 | Reply
It mainly sounds like you are biting off more then you can chew at first.
Find a beginners program and stick with it.
Good luck.