Hello hello, I'm new here, and tentatively asking for top tips for a very first time runner!
I am quite literally going to put on my trainers for the first time tomorrow, to attempt a run, I have failed so many times in the past, so would love an idea of a first goal, and a plan of action, that is manageable for a newcomer!!
Look forward to hearing.....
Many thanks in advance
This is a forum for the Couch to 5K program. It is structured for beginners of all shapes, sizes and ages.
You can find the details here:
nhs.uk/LiveWell/c25k/Pages/...
Thank you , I've just downloaded the app, so feel quite hopeful...!
Hidden This C25K programme is fantastic and the support you get on this forum is totally unbelievable. The programme takes you carefully through all the steps right from the very beginning and the folks on this forum stay with you urging you on, every single step of the way. Without the support of the forum I'm certain that I'd have given up by now, instead I'm "running" forward. Some people like me use a shorthand for the runs - so Week 1 Run 1 is just W1R1. Start there at W1R1 and follow the programme. Repeat sessions if you need to - I have been told now many times on this forum that this is MY journey: you have your journey to come, so do it your way. One quick word, though, I personally find the podcasts better than the app - why not download them and see for yourself ... it will mean that you meet the lovely Laura - you'll see (hear)! By the way I'm old now, I avoided running even when I was a schoolboy so many years ago and my C25K journey started /stopped/restarted - this time around I'm at week 6 so far, getting grumpy if I can't get a run in - I would never have believed it. WELCOME TO THE FAMILY!
Thank you !
The programme works 
Best advice I can give you is read the early posts of runners who went on to graduate
It makes for funny and inspiring reading and you will see that while we might run on our own, on this Forum we never run alone
Thank you!
I recommend the podcasts, its little chunks to begin with and feels hard but manageable. Don't go too fast, and don't beat yourself up about the occasional less comfortable run. I'm just about to start week nine, but I found running for 60s hard to begin with. It's lovely how quickly your fitness improves! Good luck x
Thank you!
Good luck. The programme is great and I would definitely use the podcasts rather than the app, but it's up to you.
I'm pretty long in the tooth and had never run in my life, so starting the programme after having some health issues was pretty daunting. But I took it slow and steady and pretty soon started to enjoy running. I'm sure you will too. 😀
Thank you!
Morning Hidden and welcome to the madhouse! I do agree with Razouski on the podcast vs app issue but it really is a matter of personal preference.
Now, get those trainers on and get started... We are all here right behind you and will be with you every step of the way. No question is too small and there is always someone who knows the answer or who can point you in the direction of someone who does. Get yourself ready to be cheered all the way to graduation!😊😊😊
Just follow the C25K plan and honestly you will be fine.
I'm currently on week 7 and trust me if I can do it, anyone can.
As I've said before too, this forum is fab, lots of lovely support and encouragement here with the occasional gentle nudge should you need it. Onwards and upwards.
I also recommend having a Positive Mental Attitude...it really helps! Tell yourself you can and you just might; tell yourself you can't and you'll talk yourself out of it.
As others have said, trust the program...it really works. I have recovered from having M.E. for fifteen years (where I literally did nothing!) And have Cerebral Palsy down my right side and will finish week 7 tomorrow!
If I can do it, so can you! Good luck. Let us all know how you get on.
Hi and welcome to one of the best things ever. as the others say, you will find advice, helpful tips, support, encouragement and the odd shove if needed.. ( that will be me )..
Slow and steady.. you will hear it all the time.. we all follow that advice for much of the time. Post all your successes and your setbacks.. ( we never use the ;f**l' word on the forum :))
The podcasts are fun and the lovely Laura is superb at keeping us going...I still take her out with me occasionally even now
I am a great one for quotes too, ( as my chums on here know to their cost) so here is one for you!
" And suddenly you know... It's time to start something new, and trust the magic of beginnings."
Go for it !
Welcome! The C25k programme is simply brilliant and choosing to follow this programme is one of the best decisions you'll ever make!
So many of us started out having never exercised before and now we are all runners! Go slow, stretch, take your rest days, listen to Laura and you'll be a runner before you know it!
This forum is the absolute best place on the internet, filled with incredible, inspirational people. Make sure you post to let us know how you're getting on and let the forum folk motivate, encourage and celebrate your successes with you. We'll be with you every step of the way!
The others have said it all really - C25K can be the start of something big, so just get those trainers on, believe in the programme and take your time! Oh, and let us know how you get on, of course!🙂
The first step is the hardest
My journey starts here
Taking the first step is the most important!
Stronger with every step
First step
