Wk5R3 Done.

[Kickflip]

Today I completed my first 20 minute run, and I'm pretty chuffed about it.

As someone who is grappling with depression and anxiety I view the completion of each run as a real achievement, and to have a positive under my belt each morning I complete a run is really helping me win my battle. I'm even starting to look forward to my runs!

I've read many posts on this forum, the successes, the set backs and the many reasons that people have chosen to take on the C25K programme. There is, I think, among all these reasons a common theme which is about people taking each day, or in the case of C25K each run, one day at a time. It's fair to say that our sole focus may not be to run 5K in 9 weeks, but also to achieve the goal or goals that brought us to C25K in the first place. And there is an important parallel here as day by day we are getting closer to achieving those goals.

I know it's not going to happen overnight, and that some days have been, and will be, really tough but I also know that taking it one day at a time we'll definitely get there.

All the best.

p.s. Is anyone else suffering with chaffed nips? Mine feel like they are about to burst into song.

[Lizzielooly]

That's superb to hear, very well done. I know how difficult it can be at times and maintaining the right mindset. You should feel so proud as you head towards achieving those goals, physical, mental and emotional

[Rignold]

Well done. W5 R3 is a really pivotal moment and feels amazing to have under your belt.

A small word of caution - the vast majority of us get slightly caught out by W6R1: although it should be easier going back to walk/run and shorter sections, for some reason almost everypne finds it harder that W5R3. It can be a bit demoralising if you dont expect it.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Although I have never suffered from depression the boost to my mental wellbeing was the most unexpected aspect of starting to run. Exercise is definitely a positive thing and running is tops for me, offering up endless self imposed challenges and personal victories.

You have reached a major milestone in your running career, one that we all can identify with. Good luck.

Keep running, keep smiling.

[Soosysoo Graduate]

Well done you!! I did same run this morning and still have the grin!!

Can't comment on the chaffed nips I'm afraid lol

[JoolieB1 Graduate in reply to Soosysoo]

Really, I am excited for week 5 now, thanks xx

[gary_bart]

Apparently running helps a lot with depression and anxiety, so your achievement with this run is going to help you in deeper ways than simply by making your legs more springy. Wk5R3, done, is a wonderful feeling. Bask in it a bit.

[JoolieB1 Graduate]

LOL, my boobs are fine, maybe a sports bra (are u a lady) would help! Well done for having such a great attitude though and for a massive achievement of doing week 5. I start week 5 on Monday and I am a little frightened by it but right now just thinking I can definitely do day 1 (3 x 5 mins), so will think about day 2 after I've done that.

I think exercise and diet make a huge difference in maintaining good mental health but it isn't talked about much. I am worn out after exercise but later have a sense of wellbeing and good mood, thanks for sharing!

Julie

[Irishprincess Graduate]

Brilliant. Very well done to you as this run is hard but makes you feel like a runner! I agree that running increases positivity and improves self confidence like nothing else, so keep going.

I've not suffered from chaffed nips but I've heard that Vaseline or a plaster before you run works wonders. Also make sure you're wearing a top that wicks away sweat and leaves you drier.

[Rob_and_his_westie Graduate]

I've been through the anxiety thing, if only to a small extent and I know what it does to your self esteem. But W5R3, now that is some achievement. Do not underestimate what you did there. You just ran twice what you've ever done before.

Hold your head up high. This is only the beginning. Big things are just around the corner.

[ndgould Graduate]

First of all, congratulations on the 20 minute run. I just completed it myself the other day and it is a massive achievement. I agree that a lot of people are doing/ have done C25K for other reasons than to be able to run a certain distance or a certain length of time. For many it is about health or weight but mental health will also be a significant factor. Keep updating us with your progress. There are loads of people on here who will celebrate your successes with you and will support you during the difficult times. As you already mentioned, I think the structure of the C25K means you have to take each day and each run at a time.

Good luck with the rest of the course and hopefully we'll be graduating around the same time!