To paraphrase Edmund Hilary...

[Leadlegs]

I've knocked the b.....r off! W5R3 done. I've been working up slowly and instead of plunging straight from 2x 8 mins, I increased the first 8mins to 10, then to 12. I knew then that I could physically run for 20mins. It gave me the confidence to tackle what I can see from the other posts, is the big jump. As a newbie here can I add that I cannot see what the rush is, why not do some runs twice, three times or more until you feel more comfortable?

Since finding this blog, it has helped me tackle the runs as at first I thought the course was written for fit twenty somethings (I'm 56), the person who did the age poll has demonstrated that I'm actually in the main age group! It made me stop making excuses and have a sharp word with myself to stop being a wimp and get on with it!

[RunningGeek Graduate]

Yay!! Well done. Now you know that you can do that, you know that you can do anything the programme throws at you and graduation is only a matter of time Keep us posted. Happy running.

[Leadlegs in reply to RunningGeek]

Thanks - still feeling tired so the thought of doing more and more seems a bit far off at the moment but thanks for the encouragement!

[RunningGeek Graduate in reply to Leadlegs]

Don't look ahead. Deal with one run at a time. You will succeed

[poppypug Graduate]

Hello and Welcome aboard !

Yes I totally agree, nothing wrong in repeating any of the runs , theres really no time limit on the programme at all

Well done on your progress so far. Completing W5 R3 is such a major milestone in the programme, a real turning point .

All the very best to you and please keep posting so we can support you along your way xxx

[davidhwynn Graduate]

Hey, in my terms you're a mere younster - welcome to Week 6, my home at the moment. By the way look at what Irish-John says ... no such thing as failed runs, only practice runs. Personally I'll repeat any run or any week that I need and get to the end of C25K now any way I can. It may take me ages, but I'll get there in the end. Having totally given up before Christmas I restarted again at W1R1 - that's repeating runs! You'll get told off for calling yourself a wimp - I was! - no you aren't, you're at W6, what's wimpish about that. I never thought I'd say this, but I have started to miss it if I have to delay a session ... I can't yet say I exactly enjoy doing it but at least I don't totally hate it either and have just about stopped wishing every possible misfortune to befall Laura when she tells me it's time to run ....

[Now-runner_NeedsAttn Graduate]

Stripling

[pollyp1 Graduate]

I had that conversation too! (55 at the time, 56 now). Keep going, it's awesome to know you're improving your life and that there are still great things ahead of you (us...)!

[Leadlegs]

Thanks guys! Must admit that my legs are feeling a bit achy today - the couch is beckoning! The thought of another run tomorrow.....but with your encouragement I'll keep going even if it means doing the same runs over and over!

[melly4012 Graduate]

Well done you! Creating your own interim runs is a good way to build your confidence - W5R3 is more a mental hurdle than a physical one so confidence is key. I agree, the forum is fantastic and definitely got me through the programme.