Hi everyone - I graduated from couch to 5k last June - I remember putting something on the other forum about lessons learned (something about eating insects and conversations with Laura!). I had built up to 7K by September last year, but struggled to get any further due to issues with my back and hips. I also basically exhausted myself by trying to maintain 3 runs a week, pilates, swimming, dog walks and lots of other activities. So I gave myself a 2 week break over Christmas, went to see a Chiropractor and then gently started to build up from 5K again since the new year.
I was really close a couple of weeks ago as I'd managed 9K but then started on a big programme of DIY and gardening.... my body simply could not keep up with running + lots of other physical activity so something had to give. I might not have run for a week but my garden does look a lot nicer!
Decided this morning to get up early and see how far Southsea seafront actually is...have always wanted to know (and for anyone who knows this area, I ran from the Eastney toilet block down to the hot walls past Clarence pier, which was 5k)... then back again! The sun, surf, music - all perfect so just kept on going. Apart from upon turning around after 5K I hit the darn Westerly wind but I was so determined by that point even that was not going to put me off.
So now I'm chuffed as a badger that 1) I've finally done it 2) enjoyed every second of it and 3) am finally learning how to balance everything so I don't get too exhausted. I'm looking forward to the race for life 10K in July... kinda thinking I'd like to do 10k a few times more before then though, but may finish off some of the DIY before I try again! Not sure if I'm going to be able to stop smiling today......