5K (3 mile) run!
 

I'm preparing for a 5K (3 Mile) run in October. I had my first training session on the weekend - man is jogging harder than biking! I almost died. Any advice?

Re: 5K (3 mile) run!
 

You're actually training for this??

-Rudey

Re: Re: 5K (3 mile) run!
 

Unfortunately yes... I've never had good cardiovascular health, so training for a 5K will help get my lungs in shape.

(yes I was that kid who almost died when the class did track and field in gym class)

GOOD FOR YOU! You would be SHOCKED to hear how many women (well, people) of ANY age can't run even ONE mile.

Try to focus on one day at a time. After about a month of running regularly (even if it's every other day) it'll be enough of a habit that you'll miss it.

You probably can't run with the IPod in the race (most races don't allow that) so be sure you don't get in a situation where you "can't" run without music. I know some girls who run ridiculously slower without their walkmans.... leaves room in their head for the "this sucks this sucks this sucks" thoughts.

Congratulations! Keep at it! You'll be shocked how much easier it gets after the first couple weeks. I'm just getting back now (took 2 months off for the broken foot) and it's killer. But trust me, it gets easier.

Web Search
 

I also recommend searching the web. There are a lot of great running resources, forums, groups, and training tips online that can really help!!
Good Luck with your training!!!

:) :) :)

Actually this doesn't shock me at all. I know I can't run a mile.

But Good for you Kappaloo. Keep up the training. I'm trying to "learn to run". I can't run very very far without wanting to die. But I'm slowly working on it so that I will be able to run that mile.

If you've never done cardio training, build up slowly. Push yourself though...if you don't keep pushing you'll never go beyond your low milage limits.

You'll improve faster than you realize...I went from 5-10 miles fairly quickly in my max distance. As long as you stay committed to running you'll be fine.

Practice how to breath normally during the race/run.
Second to the running shoes comment, it is as important as the run itself, so be prepared.

Good luck, kappaloo!

Here is a tip then:

Try to place one foot in front of the other when you run. It's difficult at first but it helps you be more efficient and quicker.

-Rudey

Some general replies:

Re shoes: I have some good quality running shoes (thank you Reebok outlet) that I actually purchased for the gym because they looked so nice (ahh vanity!). Now they're actually functional as well.

Re the web and also Re building up slowly: I'm following this plan, which was recommended by my trainer. The local running shop also has free biweekly beginner runs which I may do once I'm able to keep pace.

Re breathing: How exactly should I be breathing? I looked online but really couldn't find much.

Lady Pi Phi: I'm doing the Oktoberfest Run . I know you're in TO, but if you wanted a goal to strive for (I'm such a goal driven person I know I wouldn't stick to running if it wasn't for a race) you could do it with me! I have some friends I'm running "with" but they're all fit and will finish far before me!

ETA: Everyone - Thanks for all the support! I know I can do this if I work at it! :)

I understand--I was like you. I look really fit, but have always had poor cardio health (never played sports that required running).

I started the "couch potato to 5K" program from www.coolrunning.com and it was a great way to work your way to a 5K. I've slacked off a bit since then, but I can still run a few miles pretty effortlessly, which I SWORE I would never be able to do.

Besides all the other important suggestions....I would have to say Hydration. I find the I can run better and longer if I am hydrated. Of course this doesn't mean drinking right before you run. Done that and it hurts.

Thanks Kapploo! I'll give this a try tonight. Heading for the gym after work. I don't think I'll actually enter the race, but I can definitly have the same goal. It'll be great motivation for me to head to the gym and get in shape if I'm striving to be able to run 5k in 2 months.

Congrats on your decision. I will also be running a 5K in October. It's the Race for the Cure (breast cancer awareness run). A whole bunch of my coworkers signed up with me and we're running as a team. Something you also might want to consider ~ what are you going to wear race day? Find a sports bra that is supportive and comfy. Also, make sure your shorts/pants aren't too tight in the waist, etc. You don't want to be in pain for something you didn't think of in advance. Good luck with your training. I'm sure you will do just fine. :)

good for you!
Since I started college my running has gone downhill considerably (illness, internship, and laziness hurt me)

Just remember to taper down your mileage in the last few days before your race and your day before should be an eazy 2mi, just enough to go out and loosen up the muscles. Make sure to load up on high-carb foods for 4 to 5 days before your race so your glycogen levels are up.