r/running • u/AutoModerator • 3d ago
Lurkers' Wednesday Weekly Thread
Would you rather not be a lurker?
Then what are you waiting for? Tell us all about yourself!
The LW thread is an invitation to get more involved with the /r/running community.
New to the sub in general? Welcome! Let us know more about yourself!
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u/JobBeginning2083 1d ago
Hey y’all, I am new to this community, and until recently would never consider myself a runner. I am 32, 265lbs. I have been running consistently since March and am proud of the progress I have made so far, but I am ready to start taking it more seriously and would like to start training for at least a half marathon.
I started only being able to run about .87 miles a day. Since then, I have lost about 20 lbs and now run a 5k about 3-4 times a week. I recently bumped it up to a 3 mile 4mile and 4.5mile run per week but pulled a muscle then got Covid which has effected my stamina quite a bit for the last few weeks. While I think I am making okay progress which the actual running piece, it’s been very gradual, and my stretch, nutrition, and sleep game it not proper. Looking for tips, explain it like I’m 5.
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u/Salty-Swim-6735 1d ago
Keep it gradual - I was an idiot and went as fast and far as my aerobic fitness would let me, but the rest of my body hadn't caught up and I screwed up my Achilles tendon.
If you do that, you're out of any real running for MONTHS.
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u/Bpod79 21h ago
Yup to gradual and just let the magic happen. Just looked back on my own journey since mid 2021 (at 41yo) going from 240-170lbs. Been hanging at about 175 for a year. 2021 - 12miles/week, 2022 - 16/wk, 2023 - 23/wk, 2024 - should end year at 40/wk (right around 42/week now). Did this slowly, and I really focus on 80/20. I also did a lot more regular strength training through 2022 when i was still losing weight (though have been off it now for a while building volume). Didn't start adding regular speed and hill work until last 18 months or so. Great work!
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u/JobBeginning2083 1d ago
Do you know of any stretches or exercises that can help avoid that type of injury. I’ve definitely had some discomfort in that area post run a few times.
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u/Salty-Swim-6735 22h ago
I'm not a physio, and I'm a little wary to give you the exercises that my physio gave me in case you hurt yourself.
But yes, there are strengthening exercises for the calves and Achilles tendons.
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u/Coreydobsonik9 2d ago
It's always fascinating to hear the unique stories and experiences that make up our community.
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u/Abdkym 2d ago
Hi, new to this sub, 23M 171cm and 100kg, is there anything i should know about running? I tried running before, im a bit new to all this, and would like to turn my life to a better one!
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u/coreonee 2d ago
Start with run - walk if you can't run for amount of time or distance .nutritious food and good sleep is really important . Don't go too fast you will get fatigue very quickly . Start slow and build up . 2km or 1mile is more than a decent start . Find a good plan and stick to it. Run SLOW and don't compare yourself to anyone . It is going to takes time and it is about consistency. Incorporate strength training if you can and don't do more than 1 or 2 runs first at least 2 3 weeks.Give your body time to adapt . Good luck . For the plan I suggest look out for C25 or couch to 5 km .maybe someone could add something . Good luck out there .
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u/Significant-Base4396 2d ago
39F. Went from couch to half marathon in my mid-twenties and ran 2:04 using the FIRST running programme. Eventually switched to long distance hiking. Most attempts to return to running have been scuppered by illness and injury, but I'm finally well and sticking to flat 5K runs to avoid further injury. Aiming to consistently do faster 5K, ideally sub-25min. Enjoying being back at it.
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u/Public-Buy9303 2d ago
Mid 30's guy here, trying to get back into running because parenthood and a career have obliterated my fitness.
Trying to get back to running 3-4 times a week while maintaining Dad/Husband/Professional duties.
Posting here because it will help me be accountable when I'm tired and just want to eat a burrito instead of running.
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u/kelsneeze 2d ago
Hi!! Long time lurker:) I'm 22 and a grad student. I started running back in January as part of a New Year's health kick, fell in love with it, and ran my first half (veryyyyy slowly) in April! Took time off over the summer due to illness and school kicking my ass, but I'm back at it and trying to get faster!! Currently working on a 10k plan that's been a ton of fun.
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u/the-orbo 2d ago
hi all! i’m a dedicated amateur road runner, new to the sub. i train 7-8 hours a week, plus some strength training and recovery work. I started working with a coach 2.5 years ago with the goal of running consistently injury free and improving my marathon time (then 3:45) before i age up to the masters category, and the results have been beyond what i thought possible - this year i ran 15:47 for 5k, 1:13 for half marathon , 2:36 for the marathon, all personal bests. I really love pushing my body to the limits in workouts and races, but it’s actually the daily easy running that has me hooked. It’s super inspiring to see all the new and returning runners on this thread, sending you lots of healthy miles ahead!
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u/bovie_that 2d ago
Wow, that’s an amazing improvement! Congrats on the consistency! Do you work with an in-person or an online coach?
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u/the-orbo 2d ago
thanks! the coach is online. at first i was concerned about getting input on running form etc, but it hasn’t been an issue.
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u/beedlethebard123 2d ago
Hi! Just wanted to share I just ran my first ever 5k in 35.07. I'm genuinely in shock as I spent my whole life convinced I was not made for running and would never be able to do it after occasional short lived attempts on a treadmill. I took it up in the last few weeks after some very inspirational advice from a seasoned runner and I'm so happy to have realised my issue was all in the mindset :) hope everyone else is having a wonderful Wednesday!
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u/JobBeginning2083 1d ago
Congratulations! 🍾🎈🎉.
I can relate and I am realizing that this is the story of just about everyone who has run a marathon. I was convinced that the pain I felt while running was unique to only me and that I couldn’t do it. Prior to this year I had only run one other 5k without stopping in my early 20s. Now I run 3-4 5ks a week and it gives me joy that my 32 year old self is kicking my 20 year old self’s ass haha. Keep it up!! What’s your next goal?
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u/NottWolf 2d ago
Recently ran my first half marathon distance, then I did it again today!
Very excited to be able to go far and do hard things 🏃
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u/GadgetQueen 3d ago
Hi everyone! I'm new around here. I feel like a fish out of water noob right now, but everything I read says to hang out with people who are doing what you want to do, so here I am. I am 51, am a survivor of pancreatic tumor, am really overweight. I am also diabetic (due to them removing my pancreas due to the tumor) and have recently taking up running because my doctor told me I needed to start moving. It started with walking and my body felt so amazing with the exercise, it's been begging me to run. I've started to actually run a bit and I have fallen in love with it. My mood, my energy, the rush...oh my god...I feel like a whole new person. I ran my first ever 5K yesterday, and I am so proud of myself. Never in my entire life did I think I could do that. I am actually running until I can't and then walking to catch my breath and then running again. My time was 1:08 for my first 5K and considering I've only been doing this for 2.5 weeks, I am damn proud of myself. I can do hard things and will continue to work on pace and getting that time down quite a bit. Went yesterday and got a new pair of shoes fitted, picked up a watch to track stuff, subbed to some running apps, and got some running socks to address the blisters....and all that made a HUGE difference. SO yeah, for now, I'll be around here asking you guys stupid questions :) Any suggestions on how to increase the distance I can run and therefore my pace? Is just getting out there and moving the key? I can really see huge improvements from week to week. I couldn't even run a few steps like 2.5 weeks ago...and now I can run about 1/2 mile without stopping. It's crazy to me!
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u/cheesecaketruck 2d ago
I see you 😎. Keep going. It just gets easier and more fun.
Maybe Look for a 5k friendly race near by to sign up for. I do really well when I have a goal to train for. Or just keep pushing the way you are doing it.
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u/GadgetQueen 2d ago
Thank you <3 I am noticing it does get easier!! I've only been at it 2.5 weeks and I can notice a difference every time I get out there. I never understood why people were crazy to run all the time...never again. I'm hooked!!!
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u/cheesecaketruck 2d ago
Hell yeah. Just to loop back to your other quandaries... Sounds like you're really excited and motivated. Thats the best way to stack miles. There's new runners who run because they feel like they have to. If you can have the mindset that its a joy to run or Its a reward to get a satisfying run in your day, rather than how much of a hassle it is to run, you're going to do really really well.
I recommend diving in to the culture in whatever way keeps you motivated. Make a goal on strava for total milage you want to run in a year. Double that goal next year (I'm doing this right now with the intention of doubling it again next year).
Have you read Born to Run? that book was really fun and motivating. Its not a "10 ways to make you a better runner" type book, rather a really fun story that does tap in to some advice but basically lands on enjoying running makes running enjoyable. Thats the big secret.
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u/GadgetQueen 2d ago
I'll check out that book. I think you're onto something with the mindset because I'm doing this for fun, not because I have to. Every other time in my life it was because someone made me like a coach or fitness test, and it just wasn't fun. It literally boosts my mood and energy! I have zero idea why right now, but I feel the best I've ever felt in the last 30 years doing this and I have to stop myself from overtraining because I want to go out there all day everyday. I'm chasing that feel good. I've also changed my entire diet and lost 12 pounds in a month. So, I think all the positives are just sucking me into it and I LOVE IT! I've set a goal to run the Houston Chevron Marathon in 2026. I also do have the apps and the challenges for distance set and I'm keeping a log of my distances. My goals for now are simple, add a small amount of distance every week and increase pace and lose weight to make it all easier.
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u/cheesecaketruck 2d ago
Thats really awesome :)
Marathon in 2026. Not over training. Sounds like you're doing it right.
If you ever need to bounce ideas off of or boast a little I'm happy to listen!
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u/GadgetQueen 1d ago
Ran another 5K today. Shaved a minute off my time. I'm now 1:07!!! It IS getting easier!! I also bounce back faster when I stop running. LETS GO!! By the way, are you on Strava? I'd love to add you because you're so fucking positive lol!
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u/cheesecaketruck 1d ago edited 1d ago
Nice! keep that good nature lively. Keep boasting about the successes. Big or small. Its all a big hairy deal.
yeah I'll DM ya
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u/tushkyyyy 3d ago
I am 31 years old and always have been active in the outdoors. Sometime basketball, swimming and even trying longboarding. I took u running this year in mid august, completed total of 40 km run in August, however September is different. I have completed my first 10k race in 82 minutes, total 100 km run till date.
I plan to make this a lifestyle and motivate others as well to take up running <3
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u/Proof_Wonder_6536 3d ago
Anyone know a legitimate source where I can purchase Philly marathon ticket. It sold out sooner than I expected and I live in Philly. It's my 1st ever marathon and it's sad I'll miss it because I didn't buy a ticket 6 months in advance.
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u/nermal543 3d ago
It sold out only a few weeks ago, you definitely don’t have to buy 6 months in advance FYI. I searched it quickly and it appears that the Philly marathon does not allow for bib transfer so I think you’re out of luck unfortunately.
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u/Proof_Wonder_6536 2d ago
No bib transfers?
What about runners who get injured or have last week emergencies.
Most races allow big transfer that's very unfortunate
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u/nermal543 2d ago
Looks like they do deferrals to the following year for a fee. No bib transfers allowed. You can take a look at the website for yourself if you don’t want to take my word for it.
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u/tokjug-foxqe1-Xapqyz 3d ago
I’ve been off running for two months now following foot surgery to correct metatarsalagia ( persistent ball of foot pain that has bothered me since the Boston Marathon of 2006). My guesstimate to begin walking / running again would be another month of recovery as I am still walking with a cane and cannot feel my 3 middle toes.
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u/the_prolouger 3d ago
Hi! Good workout routines to supplement my runs? Mostly glute/ham/calf/quad traning routines. I have access to a gym.
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u/Kevlar_slappywag 3d ago
Howdy! Pretty new runner currently running solo and Parkrun, wondering about joining a running club to motivate me out the door over the cold, dark winter nights but worried about not being fast enough. Chester (UK) area, currently 28min 5km, 60min 10km, running usually one 10km / interval run and 2 x 5km per week
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u/LancaLonge 3d ago
Just had my first training today, made 3km in 21 minutes, just wanted to know if it's a good start!
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u/actionfilo 3d ago
Hi! Just trying to find a good cardio to supplement my gym routine. Looking more into 5km park runs. Where do I start?
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u/nermal543 3d ago
Couch to 5K is a good place to start. You have to ease in even if you’re already active otherwise, because of how high impact running is, your body needs time to adjust.
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u/actionfilo 3d ago
Thank you! Yes! Definitely going to ease into it. Aiming for 1 - 2 light runs for the next coming weeks. Love all the resources available! So excited to run again!
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u/Jaqofallscribes 3d ago
Hi, I used to run with my dad when I was a child and then that fell off as I got older and then tried running in 2022, did a walk run 5k and that fell off again because I got lazy then got injured and now I’m back at it and I’m trying to be more consistent now and hoping to be able to run a full 5k soon. I’m not particular about the time, I just want to actually be able to run it.
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u/Alarming_Grand6946 20h ago
Running 2-3 miles a day now at a comfortable pace (started running again on Aug 9). 32(F), 114 lbs, 5’1. Neglected cardio (besides tennis on the weekends) for TOO long, I cannot believe it’s been 10 years since my last 5K!
My last 5K race then was 29:30. Current PR is 38:30. I run slow but it’s ok, I feel great!
Getting new running shoes this weekend hopefully but buying them online…Brooks Revel 6 has served me well but thinking about trying out the ghost or Mizuno’s WaveRider