Getting Into Running

[rleroux]

Dear all

I have received my first Fitbit for Christmas from my wife. (Think she's trying to tell me something?) lol.

So I have this FitBit Charge 3 and now I'm keen to go running / jogging / walking whilst monitoring my heart-rate.

I've noticed on Apps Like Runtastics there are little running programs that helps a person like me to get started, like how to build up to a 1km run of a 5km run etc. 

I don't just want to randomly run around with no plan, and I know the info is out there somewhere. 

I've noticed FitBit has a "Guidance" Option called "Fitbit Coach" but it cost money and it doesn't seem to cater so much for running.

I'm trying to keep it simple by using one App such as the Fitbit App to do what I need.

Any Thought would be greatly appreciated. 

Riaan le Roux

[DMFan]

Unfortunately, with the Charge 3 I believe you'll need an additional app on your phone unless you want to keep checking the tiny timer on your wrist and remember when to start/stop running.

I personally use the Fitness22 10k runner which will slowly work you up to a 10k (though I've never made it past week 8 due to either ability or life getting in the way). There are a variety of such apps if you search for Couch to 5k or similar. They usually have about 3 runs a week, each getting progressively more difficult, though it's perfectly ok to stay on one run until you feel you've mastered it. 

I do wish the Charge 3 would have the ability to do this from the app. A simple buzz or two when it's time to stop or start running would suffice and then it would progress along each time you run. Fitbit could even go further by basing the run/walks on your heart rate. I'm gonna go see if there is such a feature suggestion to upvote....

Good luck!

[Heather-S]

I like Hal Higdon's running plans.  You can also download a Couch-to-5K (C25K) app or plan pretty easily.

The key is to start slow.  Run slow and gradually increase your mileage.  Don't start trying to run a 7 minute mile, you'll just hurt yourself.

[emili]

@rleroux.. hey there and welcome to the forums.. you will need a running app to do what you are hoping to do. there is a free version of fitbit coach, but to your point, it is not geared towards running.. find one that works for you and remember to be realistic especially in the beginning about distance and speed. 

[BubbaC]

@rleroux  I use MapMyRun app to track my runs. You can cross use the fitbit app with it and it will send your stats to the fitbit app. It works great for tracking your distance and pace. When looking back at your workouts on the fitbit app you can compare your heart rates and times. Set goals and stick with it. If your body can take it, it can be an enjoyable pas time and great way to lose weight.  

[LennyDublin]

As already suggested I used the Couch-to-5k app several years ago to work up to a 5k. I plan on using it again to get back to that condition. It is a very easy to follow app and the interface very friendly as far as playing music and the instructions on when to run and walk.