I'm thinking of starting running...

[Beechwoods]

I've never been a big one for exercise for exercise's sake, but whereas I used to got for a good 7-10 mile walk on a weekend, with two kids 5 and under that's just not happening, unless they get carried all the way round, and that's just not happening :lol:

I also need a good means of stress relief at times (job :spew:)

So I figured I might take up running; a few times round the park, get the heart-rate up a bit.

Anyone got any tips? Anyone do likewise? I was always third in the obstacle race at school, so this is a new thing for me :)

[Tim]

Find a specialist running shop and get some good running shoes would be my only tip. Essential really if you are going to run a lot. I used to run a lot in my dim and distant past, in fact ran for Lincolnshire County - now I couldn't run to catch a bus :(

[Jonboy]

I've never been a big one for exercise for exercise's sake, but whereas I used to got for a good 7-10 mile walk on a weekend, with two kids 5 and under that's just not happening, unless they get carried all the way round, and that's just not happening :lol:

I also need a good means of stress relief at time (job :spew:)

So I figured I might take up running; a few times round the park, get the heart-rate up a bit.

Anyone got any tips? Anyone do likewise? I was always third in the obstacle race at school, so this is a new thing for me :)


getting you leg over regular does it for me, heart rate up stress relief etc and it's not so hard on the knees as jogging, well some days it's not, carpet burns are a bitch though

[The Grand Wazoo]

Nick,
My mum (a doctor - retired now) always used to say about running that it's a curious thing - If you're going to do it, then do it for the love of it, or to catch a train. However, if you want to do it to keep fit then you're mistaken because:

If you can do it, you're fit enough not to need to, so don't bother
If you need to do it, then you're not fit enough, so don't bother.

So, unless you love to run or you're late for your train, swimming is the answer!

[Beechwoods]

getting you leg over regular does it for me, heart rate up stress relief etc and it's not so hard on the knees as jogging, well some days it's not, carpet burns are a bitch though

Maybe it's just me, Jon, but it's easier to make a resolution to go running these days!

[Jonboy]

Maybe it's just me, Jon, but it's easier to make a resolution to go running these days!

Young kids do play havoc with ones love life, opotunities are few and far between in these times i know, give it time it will become good later on

[Welder]

Given you live in Bristol Nick I would have thought a bycicle might have sorted you out and saved you a few quid while your getting fitter.

That is if shagging your way to superhero status is definitely out of the question :eyebrows:

[Effem]

Methinks the cocktail of stress and running 5 or more miles a day might be a deadly one for your heart.

A dog might be a good idea. If you feel you MUST have regular strenuous exercise, then something huge like a Newfoundland will provide the right impetus because if it decides it will go for a walk, then it's a braver man than me that attempts to ignore the dog's needs - it will drag you off the settee no problem :lol:

If your job is the major source of stress in your life then seriously consider a change - it simply isn't worth the destruction that stress wreaks on your body.

You could try shagging your way to fitness though :eyebrows:

[Beechwoods]

Thanks for your thoughts chaps, most of them at least (:rolleyes:)

I like my job; it's just at times I need to wind down and get some perspective. I walk to and from work which helps (40mins each way), but I'd like to do something a bit more focussed.

Cycling in Bristol. If I lived next to the Bristol-Bath cycleway I'd definitely do it. Unfortunately where I live I'd have to fight all the traffic, and frankly cycling in Bristol traffic is a scary prospect!

[jantheman]

Running...not good...puts too much strain on legs, ankles etc. If you are doing it for the exercise then either cycling or swimming will give you the exercise without the constant shocks to you lower limbs.
Thats what my doc says, anyway........

[Effem]

Running...not good...puts too much strain on legs, ankles etc. If you are doing it for the exercise then either cycling or swimming will give you the exercise without the constant shocks to you lower limbs.
Thats what my doc says, anyway........

Yep running/jogging also plays havoc with those that are afflicted with man boobs :lolsign:

Mind you, lady boobs swinging about during jogging have a certain appeal :eyebrows:

[Reid Malenfant]

Running huh, this would get you fit (http://theartofsound.net/forum/showpost.php?p=184814&postcount=433) :eyebrows:

[MartinT]

I also need a good means of stress relief at times (job :spew:)

I know the feeling but is there stress at work all the time or just peaks? It's very important (I say from experience) that you enjoy your basic job even if it stresses you on occasion. If you find you aren't enjoying it, then getting out should be your first priority.

Things you can do at work are lots of walking around at a brisk rate; never using lifts; getting out for lunchtime instead of sitting at the screen, ensuring that you grab some 'me-time' during breaks, smiling at and getting to know everyone (seriously). All of these actions improve your wellbeing.

I also advocate cycling over running.

[Welder]

“I walk to and from work which helps (40mins each way), but I'd like to do something a bit more focussed.

Cycling in Bristol. If I lived next to the Bristol-Bath cycleway I'd definitely do it. Unfortunately where I live I'd have to fight all the traffic, and frankly cycling in Bristol traffic is a scary prospect!
__________________
Nick “

Ah, a change of agenda then; get brave and then cycle ;)

I’ve given up trying to drive in Bristol, motorcycle or truck, it’s just too much like hard work and too expensive. At busy times it’s so much quicker to bicycle and while I agree dodging the cars and buses does at first seem a bit daunting Bristol is pretty bicycle friendly. That 40 min walk could be a 15min cycle :)

[DavidF]

I know the feeling but is there stress at work all the time or just peaks? It's very important (I say from experience) that you enjoy your basic job even if it stresses you on occasion. If you find you aren't enjoying it, then getting out should be your first priority.
Things you can do at work are lots of walking around at a brisk rate; never using lifts; getting out for lunchtime instead of sitting at the screen, ensuring that you grab some 'me-time' during breaks, smiling at and getting to know everyone (seriously). All of these actions improve your wellbeing.

I also advocate cycling over running.


Excellent point made.

I too have taken up a bit ore exercise lately, as I've put on a bit of unwanted weight.

I'm dubious about running and do it in limited amounts. I'm focusing on cycling(+ walking a bit).

I've invested in heart rate monitor, ideally i get back home each time. ;)

[Welder]

Nick! Wait! I’ve done some sums and I’ve got it sorted mate :)

You say it takes 40 mins to walk to work.
If you cycle I reckon you can it in 15 mins. That gives you 25 mins spare.
Aerobic exercise is good at around 20 min bursts :)

So, explain to the missus that its not about the sex, its about you getting fit and happier and being in an overall better temper etc; they’re good about that sort of stuff are women in my experience :eyebrows:

So you’ll have a 20 min shag, 5 min to recover and then get on the bike :eyebrows:
Seriously mate, it’s a win win situation. You wont have to worry too much about making sure the missus enjoys herself to start with coz you’ll be going at it like a lunatic to get the heart rate up.
The missus will get tuned into it after a bit and she’ll feel better. Then of course, the money you save by cycling you can take her out with an stuff. Plus she’ll be getting a bit in the morning and that makes lots of women smile for the day in my experience and you’ll be super fit once you’ve got up to 4 or 5 times a week with the new routine.

Feck! I’m in the wrong job mate. Need to think about moving into lifestyle and fitness training :rolleyes: :lolsign:

[synsei]

Nick! Wait! I’ve done some sums and I’ve got it sorted mate :)

You say it takes 40 mins to walk to work.
If you cycle I reckon you can it in 15 mins. That gives you 25 mins spare.
Aerobic exercise is good at around 20 min bursts :)

So, explain to the missus that its not about the sex, its about you getting fit and happier and being in an overall better temper etc; they’re good about that sort of stuff are women in my experience :eyebrows:

So you’ll have a 20 min shag, 5 min to recover and then get on the bike :eyebrows:
Seriously mate, it’s a win win situation. You wont have to worry too much about making sure the missus enjoys herself to start with coz you’ll be going at it like a lunatic to get the heart rate up.
The missus will get tuned into it after a bit and she’ll feel better. Then of course, the money you save by cycling you can take her out with an stuff. Plus she’ll be getting a bit in the morning and that makes lots of women smile for the day in my experience and you’ll be super fit once you’ve got up to 4 or 5 times a week with the new routine.

Feck! I’m in the wrong job mate. Need to think about moving into lifestyle and fitness training :rolleyes: :lolsign:

Geez, how long before we see you on the box John, dressed in a pink leotard, encouraging us all to 'F*ck For Life!!!'??? :lolsign:

[baron]

Nick, are you near or can you get to a gym? If so I recommend you try Spinning (an indoor cycling class). It is great for the heart and importantly IMO because its indoors its safe and you can do it all year around in all weathers. Running is not great in the cold and rain. Twice a week should do it, I do 4 to 5 classes but I only live 5 mins from the gym and can do it on the way to work.

[Darren]

Jezus! Don't listen to this bunch of lard arses. I've never heard anything as limp wristed in my life! :)
Running is bloody great. You'll be fitter, more able to handle stress. You'll have higher energy levels and, eventually, be a far better lover with much greater staying power.
Your legs and arse will tone and harden enhancing your masculinity and making you feel good naked. Your libido will rocket and you'll take a string of younger lovers..... (ahem! I'm getting carried away but you get the idea)

Don't spend a feckin' fortune on kit. Get your trainers on and start nice and slowly for twenty mins. A bit stiff the day after? Good. Keep going, run through it,but be careful and don't overdo it. Enjoy learning to balance your heart, lungs and legs for endurance. Relax, smile as your head empties and you are forced to just concentrate on something as basic as running.
If you find you like running get yourself a basic heart monitor effort to wear while running and find out what your optimal exercise heart rate is - it's fascinating to find these things out.
I ran last night, feel great today and might well run again tonight. You'll feel, younger, alive and healthy.
Joint damage? Live a little!

[goraman]

A bike is far better or,unless bad joints and arthritis spider veins,bunions and plantar fasciitis are your goal. Remember the Book Running written in the 70's well the author died running as a young man.He had a massive heart attack.

Tennis or racket ball is more fun and you can get just as good of exercise,find a wall and play hand ball for 40 min.

You could also watch my soon to be 2 year old,chasing him around keeping him out of stuff will tire you out fast.

If your heart is set on running,just get very good running shoes,wrap your knees and for God's sake take it easy.
It was a big fad here years back and a lot of doctors are now getting rich doing knee surgery s and I can't tell you how meny ambulances have been dispatched for runners having passed out or worse.

[MG1]

Nick,

A good start is to do run walks. That is just jog lightly for say 10mins and the walk for 100m or so to catch your breath and then jog again. A good trick is to use lamposts as markers. When you feel like walking set yourself the goal of the next but one post, then walk two and start running again.

Depending upon your general fitness, age, family history of heart disease etc...I would also recommend just having a chat with your GP, but if you've been a walker and active with the kids then you probably have a reasonable level of fitness.

I took my mom from walking a mile and panting to runing a marathon in around 5:40 over around 3 years.

A friend in London also told me about this:

http://www.parkrun.org.uk/ashton-court/home

apparently the atmosphere at these is not like club races and all sorts do them. Many buggy runners too.

When you get going I would definately recommend proper running shoes over general trainers. You'll need the support.

I can recommend Easy Runner on St Michael's hill....just down from the children's hospital. I should say I have no connection...in fact the guys who run Moti on whiteladies road live opposite (and they are lovely people) but I would still recommend Easy Runner.

Staff there are very friendly and they will assess your running gait outside the shop.

First time I went in (around 10yrs back) I think I tried on 6 or 7 different pairs. I still try and get the same models or the nearest too and I've now run 5 marathons over the past 10 years and never had a blister.

Anyway, if you have any questions then drop me a PM...I'm about to start again after 6 months off and even then I'd only run a few 10 milers in the past 18mnts. My plan is to build up my base again and do a mile a day in may...(weekday's only as rest is important too)

slow and steady is the key...run at the speed of chat. ie you should be able to sing along to your ipod or whatever without getting breathless...that way you're burning fat and building your base. When you get into you can add variety with speed, hills, fartlak, intervals etc....but slow and steady, drinking enough (but not too much) and enjoying the endorphines and watching other people stare at you like you're mad...it's great!

Hope that helps and sorry if that's all a mass of blurb...can you tell I actually quite enjoy it... :)

[MG1]

A bike is far better or,unless bad joints and arthritis spider veins,bunions and plantar fasciitis are your goal. Remember the Book Running written in the 70's well the author died running as a young man.He had a massive heart attack.

Tennis or racket ball is more fun and you can get just as good of exercise,find a wall and play hand ball for 40 min.

You could also watch my soon to be 2 year old,chasing him around keeping him out of stuff will tire you out fast.

If your heart is set on running,just get very good running shoes,wrap your knees and for God's sake take it easy.
It was a big fad here years back and a lot of doctors are now getting rich doing knee surgery s and I can't tell you how meny ambulances have been dispatched for runners having passed out or worse.

Bunkum...running is not any more dangerous than any other sport that involves cardio stress....yes people die at events like the london marathon, but they do too at cycling events. The important thing with any exercise is the understanding of your limits, your ability to slowly train your body and the ackowledgement of when your body is telling you to rest.

It is also generally accepted that unless supported correctly and only when recommended by a physio you should not restric the movement of joints artificially.

Diet is imortant too, but don't be put off by folk who spout this 'running is dangerous' nonsense. Not only will cardio fitness improve your physical health, it can also be a major contributor to positive mental health and stress relief.

Far more dangerous is gobbling burgers and watching TV...life is about moderation though, so take it easy, don't push yourself too hard and when you don't feel like it because you're tired, have a day off and rest.

regarding tennis/racketball. Yes these will get your pulse going, but it is sustained exercise over a period of 30min plus that will improve your cardiac health. Make racket sports (which incidently are significantly worse for knees due to hard (even sprung) surfaces tend to force the heart rate into the anaerobic zone. This will improve your stamina, but at the cost of not improving your base fitness as efficiently and since you will be burning the muscle glycogen rather than fat you will tire quick, take longer to recover and hence probably not do as much good should you run or run/walk three times a week for around an hour.

Build up slow and take it easy...set some goals and enjoy it.

Best of luck

Michael

Plus all the great stuff Darren said...:eek:

[Darren]

Thank you Michael. A bit of sense. This load of big girl's blouses need slapping round. :)

[MG1]

Thank you Michael. A bit of sense. This load of big girl's blouses need slapping round. :)

LOL...you can be fit and enjoy hifi then... :ner:

controversial...!

[Beechwoods]

Thanks Michael, excellent advice! You know so many people I know recommend that shop on St Michael's Hill!

[MG1]

No probs Nick.
It's a slightly funny place, some if the older staff are slight introverts...but that suits me as you can probably tell from my hobbies of astronomy, long distance running and now hi-fi.

It's one of those places I go too even though I can probably get the shoes a few quid cheaper on the web. I just know that for that few quid I'm getting some great knowledge and almost never fail to pick up a few tips.

Whilst I love forums and internet for advice and research, good old analogue v1 conversation is still the best way to learn IMHO.

Let us know how u get on. I've signed up for the Ashton Court park run so may get along one weekend once I've got back into it again.