Can't run for more than a few mins without getting breathless...?!
Question:
Can't run for more than a few mins without getting breathless...?
When I was younger I used to play basketball and this kept me very fit, however I hurt my knee and stopped playing for a while. I played the sport for about 3 years when I was in high school. I'm 18 now and feel totally unfit, I'm not fat or anything but I can't run outdoors for more than a few minutes without getting terribly out of breath. I find it easier on a treadmill but can't afford going to the gym or getting one.
Does anyone know what could be causing this, or what I could do to improve? It feels as though my body could keep running but my breathing can't handle it and I really want to be fit again. Thanks..
21 hours ago
I dont smoke or drink.
21 hours ago
I've been checked out for asthma before but that wasn't to do with running, that was just stress causing breathlessness.
Answers:
If all you can do is run a short time, then only run for a short time. However, when you're out of breath start jogging really slowly til you get your breath back. Then start running again. When you're out of breath, repeat. This sort of interval running is excellent at developing stamina, as it forces the body to become more efficient at using oxygen. It'll take a little while, but you should start to see improvements in fitness reasonably soon.