Can I do it?

[minsterjane]

I am on the programme for the 3rd time (never made it beyond week 2 before) and really want to complete all 9 weeks this time. I did week 3 run 1 today and found it easier than I expected. But I just looked ahead to weeks 4 & 5 and just can't imagine going for so much longer so soon! I suppose I just need reassurance that it is possible

[Hennith Graduate]

Yes, it can be scary when you look too far ahead, but you'll be surprised how your body adapts. Keep reading the forum and you'll see how everyone seems to get there somehow, regardless of age, size and level of fitness. The real key to success is believing in the programme and believing that if everyone else can get there so can you. You will undoubtedly have the odd run that is a struggle and you might find you lack motivation sometimes and need to give yourself a good talking to (I certainly do!), but keep remembering why you want to do this and what you WILL have achieved by the end. Enjoy the challenge!

[Hidden]

What stopped you succeeding the first 2 times? You have to address that or you're destined to fail again.

If you're already thinking that you won't manage weeks 4 and 5 then you will fail. Just focus on the next run and trust the program to work as it has done for many thousands of others.

Good luck, and focus on succeeding rather than failing.

[minsterjane Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for that. You are absolutely right. I think I stopped last times because it was easy to find other things that were more important. This time I really want to carry on Support here helps a lot. Thanks

[Fattytumtum Graduate]

Don't forget you can repeat weeks or individual runs as necessary. I repeated the week 1 runs 5 times before I felt ready to move on. Since then I've met each target. Stay focused. Good luck

[lemondoodle]

You don't need to worry about week four or five. You just need to focus on the 'here and now' of the run you are doing today. The programme is designed to build stamina and that seems to be working for me as I reach week 5. By the end of week 5 I will be doing a 20 mins run. Seems hilariously unlikely at the mo, but I just don't think about it and just focus on what Laura says I'm to do: it's worked so far.

[minsterjane Graduate in reply to lemondoodle]

I know everyone is right - looking ahead was a mistake. Even running 3 minutes seemed a mountain at first but I managed it. Thanks

[laurav2166 Graduate]

My advice.... Don't look ahead, just do it, I couldn't run for a bus 4 months ago, I'm now running for 28 minutes- moving onto week 9 tomorrow. It's all in the mind. Good luck x

[minsterjane Graduate in reply to laurav2166]

That is very true. I have always known that my mental attitude was a problem I give up too easily when exercise gets difficult. I am going to imagine all of you running with me and urging me on. week 9 - well done!

[misswobble Graduate]

I agree with that. Don't look forward to future weeks. Just concentrate on the run you're doing. Laura will get you round, don't worry. Make sure to keep listening to her and all will be well. I'm 56 and I've just graduated, having never run in my life before

You can do it. Just believe it

[minsterjane Graduate in reply to misswobble]

Same age as me - that is encouraging. I am fairly fit but have never run before either. Feeling positive!

[waletta Graduate in reply to minsterjane]

I'm another 56er & hadn't run since school & then very unwillingly. Come back & tell the forum. Well cheer you on as you go. Don't worry or do yourself down. One run at a time.

[Rockette]

Good advice from above , don't look too far ahead ! It's so true . I couldn't run for my life . When I started this programme if anyone told me I would be completing the programme & running 5 k in 34 min I would have laughed in there face , I'm 55 & I'm doing just that , I only graduated sun . You can do that wk , just keep telling yourself that , just take the runs as they come , pace yourself , & you will find that the wk you fear will not be has bad as you think

[minsterjane Graduate in reply to Rockette]

Well done you! I feel really encouraged and looking forward to the next run tomorrow

[Rockette in reply to minsterjane]

Good luck & enjoy

[Hidden]

I will also restart the programme in the not too distant future as I'm turning into a couch potato again! I use my cycle but really need to get going on the C25K again. If I feel like repeating weeks I shall do so, just go at my own pace and enjoy it. I must admit, I have missed the feeling of achievement and exhilaration I get from running. Good luck with your programme. Best wishes.

[lakesfan]

Yes you can. I did last run on week 7 today. I am just about 60 years old and have managed to get off my Bp tablets. If i can do it on Beta Blockers you can too! tip, just jog slowly.

[A1nsworth Graduate in reply to lakesfan]

I think that is tremendous news.Obviously this programme is brilliant. X

[A1nsworth Graduate]

You are only a youngster and yes you can do it.I have never run in my life.I used to get left out of sports events at school as I was rubbish, but I've proved them all wrong and I'm 62.Age is just a number, and as others have said the worst thing you can do is look ahead to see how far you have to run on following weeks.I f you have to,repeat weeks.I never missed one and did it in the 9weeks.its all in the mind !You will do it x