I always knew I “should.” I tried running a few times, but had to stop due to an injury. I finally got some insoles that solved the problem and just kept going. Then the doctor story kind of made it permanent. This Web Comic The Oatmeal is also a factor. Not that I was ever super overweight, but running from my past of being super unhealthy.
I was just going 5k 3 times a week for a few years, and wanted to do more and had some more time, so I thought about doing a 10k, but that didn’t feel like a challenge, so I pushed for a half marathon. Then covid happened. I kept up with the training, but shortly before the race got bored of running. Training runs for 3 or 4 hours around the same trails around the neighborhood gets so boring.
I’d always wanted to try cycling, so I bough a used bike and gear off Amazon and went. I intended to keep running, but cycling was too much fun so that fell away quickly, much to my regret now. I got into Zwift and did an online racing team and got super in shape. So I cycled so much I actually put myself into overtraining syndrome and had to take a several month break. Yah, too much exercise is also bad. Then I recovered and trained for a 100 mile ride I did last September (5:45 hours:minutes). Then wanted to do more, and again went into overtraining syndrome. After another few months break, I’m starting up again and adding running to try and keep more balanced. Also, since cycling so so low impact, the running impact helps with bone strength.
After starting CB, I got super motivated to lose the “last 5 pounds” that I’ve been struggling with for months. I’m almost to exact ideal weight for the first time in decades. Partially, I also wanted to get into shape to entice the wife. That didn’t work. But I figured if she divorced me, at least I’d be in good shape to attract suitors then too.
If you’re interested in starting to run, I recommend the Couch To 5k (C25K) program. It’s fantastic. There are many apps and you can get some for free to help keep track. Get some new running shoes. If you can, go to a running store and tell them what you’re doing and have them watch your gait while running. This will really help prevent injuries. Stretch for 10 minutes after each run. I could get a 5k run in, 5 minute warm-up and cool-down, and 10 minute stretch in under an hour.
I’m happy to chat more about running or cycling if you’d like any advice. I’ll try my best to help you, but I’m no expert or coach.