Never ran before

[SloPok]

Hi! I'm about as sedentary as it gets. I'm 44 years old. 158 lbs. I work from home, 8 hour day desk job. I don't take breaks (very demanding job). Wake up, throw on my yoga pants (which have never been used for yoga) walk my 30 steps to my office and sit for 8-10 hours. Get off work, do some housework then sit on the couch to read or watch tv then bedtime.

 

Next day is exactly the same as the day before.

 

Ive been so unmotivated for so long and feel and look like I've just given up on myself. It's depressing.

 

I'm not an over eater, just normal meals, not much snacking and I don't drink much pop, pretty much just water and milk. I've been a consistent 120-130 lbs (size 4-6) until about 10 years ago. I have a treadmill that I don't use. A dog I don't walk. Tons of fun exercise equipment and DVDs I don't take advantage of. I've never been one to work out, much less run (unless being chased by the bad guys and even that has never happened).

 

This morning laying in bed I downloaded the app. I'm scared I'll fail. I'm scared I'll hurt myself. Im scared it won't work and I'll give up (again).

 

BUT! I'm determined to do this and see what happens. I'm going to start by counting calories (1200-1500 per day) and do a workout DVDs on my off days. (Pilates, yoga, ab work, etc). I'm going to try to see if I can get thru week one.

 

So that's me and my plan. Wish me luck and a prayer!

 

Three questions...

 

Should I do the app in the morning or afternoon knowing how my day goes (above)?

 

What should I eat before I run?

 

Any real advice for a very out-of-shape-can't-hardly-breathe-going-up-stairs-but-really-wants-this-to-work kind of gal?

 

Thank you all for your support!

[torus_ot]

Start slowly to build up your endurance and confidence!

 

I have desk job as you are: 10-12 hours behind the desk. I have at least 40lbs that should not be mine...

Two month ago I started (on treadmill) with 2mph and run with 3mph.

But before go to the next week I always test myself adding one more run-walk interval.

It is OK to repeat day or week, sometimes it is necessary to proceed. Do not be discourage by this.

 

Now I can run jog 40-50 min and I can run 5 km (3.1 miles) under 35 min.

There is a wonderful feeling when you complete one more day/week. Be ready that your legs will be hurting.

Add walking to your daily routing, the steps counting apps (or pedometer) can help with motivation.

 

First two question have simple answer: whatever feels right

I run after job, since I am sitting behind computer sometimes well after midnight. Morning hours are to precious for me....

Usual recommendation for food is light but high energy. First few weeks it is not so critical.

[Janegb]

Hi Slopok! The hardest part, for me anyway was getting out the first time. Once you've done that it will get easier. Yes it hurts at first but you'll feel so much better just getting outside in the fresh air. If you want to buddy up let me know. We all need encouragement sometimes and it's nice to share the ups and downs with someone - especially the ups! I can give you my email if you want.

[SloPok]

I did it. Week 1 day 1 and day two are done. Shuffled my way thru the running portions but never stopped. Heart rate is 111 after the cool down. I read somewhere that conditioned runners can have as low as 62? Yup. I have a long way to go but the first two days are behind me. I have a strong suspicion that I will need to do week one over, but that's OK I will get there! I am in no hurry.

[torus_ot]

Way to go! And keep us posted.

[JAX Brian 1970]

Just getting back to it after a long time off to get my degree and my CPA license now it's time to pound pavement. I'm glad to be part of something here!

[Marthac]

Depends what is best for you. I have more energy in the morning. Have a good breakfast with some protein, then work out. Shower and you are ready for your day!