When I achieved my target weight in December 2023, I was thinking what to do next?
I wanted to try running as I never attempted to do proper running in life except for few years when I was in NCC (National Cadet Corps) at school and college.
I took this as an opportunity to attempt to do running this year. As always, I consulted my gym trainer asking him if I can commence running instead of walking every day.
He told me, it was a great idea and the only suggestion he gave me was..
“Don’t start running fast; Running should be smooth as if I am having a conversation with a friend without any puffing!
Great idea it was. It gave me the much needed confidence to start running..
In the first few weeks, I started to run 10 minutes out of the total 60 minutes walk. It gradually improved to 20 minutes, 30 minutes and finally 40 minutes. By the time, I achieved 40 minutes, it took me a good 4-5 weeks of effort.
Not bad for a first timer!
Another challenge I encountered during my running was taking my phone and it was an hindrance. It became increasingly difficult to keep holding the phone in my hand and at the same time to run.
I contemplated to buy an fitness watch that would do the stats for me. After much deliberation, I went for Apple 9 series watch!
What a fantastic buy it was.
After adopting running into my daily routine, I started to feel confident and slowly increased the total number of kms. It started with 1 km, 2 km, 3kms and now I am able to run 10 kms without any difficultly.
Another point I need to highlight which helped me immensely in my running is to utilize the different Heart rate zone options available in Fitness app within the Apple watch.
So, what are various Heart rate Zones?
Heart rate zones are a way of measuring the training effect you’re getting from your run. A five-zone system is commonly used:
- Zone 1: Very light-intensity effort, suitable for brisk walking or a very easy run.
- Zone 2: Easy running, ideal for recovery runs, warmups, or cooldowns.
- Zone 3: Steady aerobic running, often used for long runs.
- Zone 4: Hard sustained effort, such as a threshold run.
- Zone 5: Very hard effort, reserved for intervals and sprints.
Link: https://therunningchannel.com/why-heart-rate-zones-matter-for-runners/
I initially started with Zone 2, very easy pace, comfortable run. As I got used to running, I started to practice in Zone 3, Zone 4 and occasionally in Zone 5.
I run 3 times a week and my schedule is
Monday – Running with the trainer – 30-40 minutes brisk run.
Wednesday – On my own – 45 minutes brisk run
Friday – On my own – 60 minutes brisk run targeting to achieve 10 kms or closer to 10 kms
With that confidence, I have registered for two 10 kms running events this year.
First event – Brisbane Festival in June
Second event – Bridge to Brisbane in September
I hope to do my best in both these events and wish me luck!