Hello!
It's safe to say we don't know each other. I last checked in here about two years ago. I barely even log-in or 'lurk'.
But we are alike in one important way: we are both runners. You may not feel you can call yourself a runner, but believe me - you are.
I remember plodding my way through the programme. I remember the shin-splints which plagued weeks 1-4, both times I did the programme. I remember doubting whether I was actually running or jogging or plodding. Could I call myself a runner? I googled differences between running and jogging but this didn't really help. It felt like a huge step to allow myself to call myself a 'runner'. I remember trying to get over how ridiculous I looked and felt; getting over the fear of other pedestrians or car drivers laughing or tooting at me. I remember the panic and worry of the second and third runs of week five: a leap from 8 minutes of running to 20 continuous seemed like Everest!
Our goals are different: you're hoping to reach 5K or 30 minutes; this year I'm aiming to finish my second (and last - the training is too much on my body) marathon well in May and improve my 2:17 half marathon PR (most likely at July's Dundee Half). Today I knocked off a third goal, which was a reminder about how important couch 2 5K is. When I first achieved that 5K marker a few years ago, I knew I wanted to get under 30 minutes comfortably; last Friday I achieved that. This morning's Parkrun showed me last friday wasn't a fluke, as I came in at exactly the same time as last week's run.
Our goals are different but we have the same over-arching goal: to improve ourselves. And we do that the way the elites do it: consistency. The experts go on about it because it is true. Do it again, again, over and over, and you will improve. You are out there three times a week. Consistently training your body. Consistently letting it rest (the time you get stronger).
The time doesn't matter. Neither does how you look. Because we are both out there running our own race for our own gain. What matters is our attitude. When I started calling myself a runner, I gained a new self-respect for myself. I started treating myself like an athlete. Morning runs still absolutely warrant poached eggs afterward - what I call "The Breakfast of Champions." I started to become less fearful of people laughing, or of failing. Because no matter how slowly or weirdly I ran (my right foot does a weird sort of a kick), I was running.
So are you. Because we are both runners. You'll get there, fellow runner! Now, forward to the finish line!
When another runner overtakes you...
Began One Hour Runner program
To all newbies who think they are the slowest runners ever!
Am I officially a runner?
Programme done. Now I'm a runner. 
