Help a Newbie Please

[mccallister84]

Hi Ladies-

I am a very, very, very new runner.  When I go out running (more of a slow jog with plenty of walk breaks), my lungs give up way before my legs do.  I just get to the point where I can't breathe.  It's frustrating  because my legs feel like they could go forever but I have to stop to catch my breath.  

I am asthmatic and I do run with my inhaler and usually use it once per run.  

Is this something that will go away with time or are there any tips you could recommend to help me with my breathing?  

Thanks so much!

[runaways]

My first thought is that you need to slow down, but if you are asthmatic, you should probably also see your doctor and see if you need any adjustments to your meds.

[mccallister84]

Thanks ladies. I have an appointment next month and will definitely bring it up.

[tuggyruns]

Definitely check with your doctor on the asthma.

I struggled with asthma throughout HS cross country, but was always told to take my inhaler before my runs. That seemed to work for me and, I know this probablly sounds weird, but I think I "out ran" my asthma. I rarely have issues any more aside from high pollen days.

[bostonmichelle]

I have issues breathing sometimes. I just take a 30 second break, catch my breath, and pick it back up. But it has gotten better over time and I can go longer without a break, I used to be a break every 1/4 mile and now I'm up to every mile or so for a long run and can go a full 5k without a break. You'll get there but I would also talk to your doctor.

[spunkypenguin]

For a while, I just took my inhaler before runs. Once I got to longer distances, I found that it wasn't lasting, so I started an inhaled steroid (Pulmicort). I am able to do most of my short runs w/o the inhaler now, but still use it for long runs or when the weather is not good for breathing (too cold, too hot, high pollen). There are still some days when I feel like my breathing just never gets into a good rhythm. It has definitely gotten better with time and building up my endurance.

[Deleted]

I am asthmatic and run as well. Sometimes weather beats my lungs and I just run badly. Part of it though is that you are a new runner and your body needs to get used to it. Try slowing down while running, work on that zone 2 long run pacing. It will help a ton, and eventually, the legs will scream for mercy long before the lungs!

[kimmib77]

Apr 17, 2014 16:45:29 GMT -5 mccallister84 said:

Hi Ladies-

I am a very, very, very new runner.  When I go out running (more of a slow jog with plenty of walk breaks), my lungs give up way before my legs do.  I just get to the point where I can't breathe.  It's frustrating  because my legs feel like they could go forever but I have to stop to catch my breath.  

I am asthmatic and I do run with my inhaler and usually use it once per run.  

Is this something that will go away with time or are there any tips you could recommend to help me with my breathing?  

Thanks so much!

No help with the asthma part but try slowing down...I always know I am going too fast if I can't talk and run at the same time good luck!!

[mainewifey]

I also take my inhaler before I run. I move in doors on really cold days, really hot or humid days, high pollen days, etc. I don't run long enough time or distances to ever need to take the inhaler with me.

I also take Advair daily.

[shauni27]

I also have mild asthma and use my inhaler before I run (and on long runs usually once during the run as well). But talk to your doctor.

But as others have said, this is also probably partially because you are new to running! I remember running and feeling like my lungs would burst at first, and I was running like 11:30 miles, already really slow. But as you stick with it, it will get more comfortable. When it doesn't, that is when you should also talk to you doctor again to see what they suggest.

good luck!

[mccallister84]

Thanks so much ladies! I just wasn't sure if it was the asthma, not being used to running or not breathing correctly. In all honesty, it's probably some combination of all of the above. I really appreciate all the advice.