Don't give up, you can do this

[Needing-answers]

A message to those of you just starting out, stick with this and you won't regret it.

It's hard when you start and you wonder how on Earth this is going to work. But it really does. Back on February 14th this year I decided things had to change and a runner was born. It didn't matter that I could only run a minute at a time, but I started to run. I was doing it for me, no one else, and although it was bloody hard work, it did get easier.

On Sunday I take part in my first Half Marathon!

That may not be your goal, it might be to lose weight, get fitter, be more healthy, get out with the family, it matters not. What matters is that you're doing it. You'll have runs where you hate every step, you'll have some where you feel amazing. But the important thing is your trying and that you got off that sofa.

Congratulations, you are now a runner, 😊

[JaySeeSkinny Graduate]

That is great progress. You've moved up really quickly - fantastic well done. I'm still at about the 10k mark and I started in Jan this year! Wouldn't dream of a half-marathon (not yet anyway!).

[Needing-answers in reply to JaySeeSkinny]

I've done 2 10k's too, and I took the advice off here of slow and steady. I'm fortunate to have found a brilliant running club where they encourage new runners. That's been a great help, plus I love my local Parkrun.

I've made do many friends doing this , I'm very lucky 😊

[Sammully Graduate]

Wow, well done to you and good luck on Sunday x

[Needing-answers in reply to Sammully]

Thank you 😊

[Suewill]

I hope what you say is true for me! I'm sitting on the couch trying to get my family to do with me, I need to get fit and loose weight now I've retired..... Too many coffee and cake morning s !!!

[Needing-answers in reply to Suewill]

Do it for yourself first, everyone needs their own lightbulb moment. It took quite a while for my daughter to join me. I tried to persuade her but it didn't work. Then one day she asked me if she could go on it too. I couldn't have been happier. I still have the coffee & cake, I just make sure I run first so I feel I've earned it 😊

[runswithdogs Graduate in reply to Suewill]

I think just start without them. Most folks I know have done the program solo, then their families and friends get interested after seeing how great the program is.

[Rainedear]

Thanks, it's having that belief isn't it ! C25K is great, i know if i keep going, i will be able to run.

[Needing-answers in reply to Rainedear]

Yes, just keep trying, even if you feel the need to repeat a run. You are already a runner 😊

[poppypug Graduate]

Ah I love this post, says it all ! Yes it truly is a life changer this programme ....

All the very best of luck to you on Sunday in your HM. Which one is it ?

Please let us know how you go on , I am sure we would all love to hear ! xxx

[Needing-answers in reply to poppypug]

I'm running the Cardiff Half Marathon, I'm both excited and nervous. I'm taking the slow and steady approach and know now there's no shame in walking a bit if my legs tire. My aim is just to do it and enjoy the experience 😊

[poppypug Graduate in reply to Needing-answers]

Ah that's great ! Im doing the Manchester Half in 3 weeks time and Im taking exactly the same approach !

Oh you will have a ball ! xxx

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

Great post and great progress!

[Needing-answers in reply to Ullyrunner]

Thank you 😊

[SuperMouse Graduate]

Good luck for Sunday!

[Needing-answers in reply to SuperMouse]

Thank you very much 😊

[runswithdogs Graduate]

Amazing. I wish you all the best in your half. That's fantastic.

[Needing-answers in reply to runswithdogs]

Thank you very much 😊

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Great post... and fast progress too !

[Needing-answers in reply to Oldfloss]

I have been careful though, I didn't want any injuries. But I'm had the motivation and enthusiasm once I started, and that's priceless 😊

[Annty]

Wow,

Thankyou for that post. Just starting out myself and yes doing it for me by myself but not feeling alone as have folks just like you encouraging me on.

Many Thanks and good running.

Annty

[Needing-answers in reply to Annty]

Well done Annty, this site is a goldmine of information and motivation. We've all been there and understand 😊 Good luck on your journey