How long should you run if you haven't ran in awhile?

Author: Declan Osinski  |  Last update: Saturday, December 27, 2025

Start Slowly: Begin with short runs of 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a week. Don't stress over pace or distance; the aim is to rebuild your running foundation and form. Build Gradually: Increase your running time by 1–2 minutes per session, adhering to a training schedule that doesn't increase by more than 10% per week.

How long should I run if I haven't run in a while?

Aim for shorter distances or times initially. For example, target 2-3 miles or 20-30 minutes of running/walking. Try to run 3-4 times a week. Consistency will help you regain your fitness level more quickly. Allow at least one or two rest days each week to let your body recover, especially after the first few runs.

How do you run after not running for a long time?

  • If you're starting running after a long (6+ month) break, the best way to ease back into it is to start with a walk-run program. Start by walking for 5 minutes to warm up, then alternate between walking and running for 30 minutes.
  • Be sure to listen to your body and take rest days as needed.
  • For in-depth knowledge:

What is the 4 8 12 rule?

It means 4 sets of 8 to 12 reps. So if you were doing squats, you might do 12 reps, rest then do 12 more, rest, then maybe 10, rest and finally 8. Your aim would be to do 12 reps each set, but 8 or more would count as a complete set.

What is the 80% rule in running?

This method advocates that 80% of your training should be easy and the remaining 20% should be hard. The exact split of easy to hard runs depends on several factors, including the number of runs you do each week, your personal fitness level and any training you do outside of running.

Top 5 Tips for Getting Back to Running After a Long Break

Does 80/20 running really work?

The Benefits of 80/20 Running

Seiler and his colleagues found when recreational runners performed a 10-week polarized training program with roughly an 80/20 split, it stimulated greater training effects during a 10K run than runners who trained at moderately high-intensity.

How many minutes of running a week is healthy?

Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity a week. Or get at least 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week. You also can get an equal combination of moderate and vigorous activity. Aim to spread out this exercise over a few days or more in a week.

What is the rule of 3 6 12 24 48 96?

This is a geometric sequence since there is a common ratio between each term. In this case, multiplying the previous term in the sequence by 2 gives the next term.

How long does it take to get back into running shape?

The time it takes to get back into running varies depending on individual factors such as fitness level, previous running experience, and any underlying injuries or health conditions. Typically, you can expect to get back into running in 1–2 months as long as you're consistent with your plan.

How to breathe properly while running?

As you're running at a steady pace, try to match your inhales and exhales to each stride, breathing deeply into your diaphragm. You could try an inhale for two steps, and an exhale for two steps, or a similar pattern that works for your breath and pace. Try to maintain this steady rhythm through your run.

How much fitness is lost in 2 weeks?

In the first ten days to two weeks of inactivity/de-training, there is a measurable loss in cardiovascular fitness, but even this level of decrease is only about 2-3% drop in values such as VO2 Max, MAP (maximum aerobic power), or FTP (functional threshold power).

At what age can you not run anymore?

There is no age limit to running.

To be able to continue running regularly in your seventies and enjoy it, you have to be realistic about your capacity. Your main aim should be to maintain a consistent routine, without getting too tired or getting injured.

Why is it so hard to start running again?

Loss of Previous Fitness Levels: The most evident challenge is the loss of cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. These declines can make even short runs feel laborious. Mental Barriers: Mentally, you might feel frustrated that you're not able to pick up where you left off.

Is it OK not to run everyday?

But generally speaking, when you are just starting out on your running journey, three or four times a week – running on alternate days – is more than enough. And less is also fine! But if you stick to no more than alternate days, then you'll automatically build those rest or recovery days into your routine.

What is the rule 34 if you can think it?

What is Rule 34? Rule 34 is an internet concept meaning that if something exists in real life, or is made up, there will be a pornographic depiction of it. This includes cartoons, celebrities, and objects, and in some cases, these depictions go well beyond usual themes found in mainstream pornography.

What is the rule number 4 in life?

Numerology number 4 people are indifferent about money and wealth and are way more concerned with the pursuit of knowledge. They are great savers and are wise with investments and savings. These individuals are hard-working as well as determined. They do not believe in adopting shortcuts with a professional attitude.

What is the 1234 financial rule?

One simple rule of thumb I tend to adopt is going by the 4-3-2-1 ratios to budgeting. This ratio allocates 40% of your income towards expenses, 30% towards housing, 20% towards savings and investments and 10% towards insurance.

What physique does running give you?

You will have stronger legs from running

When we run, we use all the muscles in our legs, big and small. If you are new to running, you might be surprised by how quickly you start to develop lean muscle in your legs and the speed at which you build endurance.

Does running burn belly fat?

However, the good news is that running is one of the best forms of exercise to lose belly fat, and there are even a few small tweaks you can make to your regular running schedule to deliver a sustained fat burning boost.

What is jogging vs running?

Running vs jogging – pace

But the general consensus is that anything less than around six miles per hour is a jog, and anything over that is classed as running.

Are you fit if you can run for 30 minutes?

At just 30 minutes of regular running, you'll reap many rewards: Improved Cardiovascular Health: Running is an excellent aerobic exercise that helps strengthen the heart and improve cardiovascular health. Regular running can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and improve circulation.

How far should you run to see results?

Even logging just a few miles a week can do your health some good, according to research and experts. And if the data have convinced you to pick up the cardio activity for the first time, remember to start small, running short distances at a time and checking in with how you're feeling, suggests Funderburg.

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