Making a start...

[Hcjones]

What ideas do folks have to keep their willpower going? I want to start running I really do, but there is always something else that needs doing...

[Hidden]

We can only egg you on. The motivation can only come from within.

I'd say just do it. Don't wait til you've bought all the best gear or downloaded the latest apps or planned a good route etc. Just chuck on some comfy clothes and have a go. Next time you run out of milk for a cuppa, run to the shop. Walk a bit, run a bit. If you have kids (or big kid friends) have a game of rounders or something. Build up the seriousness over time, if you feel compelled to do so.

Whatever, keep it fun. If it's not fun and it's not necessary, it's a waste of life.

[Hcjones in reply to Hidden]

Sounds good to me, thanks!

[Gwibiwyr51 Graduate]

The hardest step is the first one off the couch; if you really want to succeeded with this programme then the answer to your question is simple, total commitment. C25K is absolutely fantastic it is a proven success, just follow the posts; if you ever need advice or a kick up the backside just ask. All the encouragement you'll receive along with your determination and sometimes grit will see you succeed; so sit down and plan your running days ( as best as you can ) for me Sat, Mon,and Weds were my running days and Thurs and Fridays were always my rest days.Everybody has different views but you decide what suits you. So get those shoes on, and take that initial BIG step off the couch and you will not regret it. The C25K family will be with you all the way.

[Hcjones in reply to Gwibiwyr51]

Thanks for that. Will make a start tomorrow!

[Gwibiwyr51 Graduate in reply to Hcjones]

Make sure you let us all know how you got on, think positive and steady as you go, cheers.

[sarahsam76 Graduate]

Hope you managed to start today. I literally have to get out of bed into my clothes and head out the door or I wouldn't do it. Means getting up at 5.30 but it fits in with a busy family life and I am loving the achievements so far. Just finished week 4.

[Hcjones in reply to sarahsam76]

Well done, I am enviousof your acheivements! Will try to get out for a 'walkrun' tmoro before work..

[MarkyD Graduate]

Start C25K, and post here every day. Tell us about your run tomorrow, tell us what you are doing on your rest day, let us know how each run went. What worked well? What did not work well? Just post a lot. Then, we can provide motivation and encouragement, and if you start to miss a run, it is you and 30,000 of us here that you are letting down.

You need to get CRAPAS: C25K Running And Posting Addiction Syndrome

[Hcjones in reply to MarkyD]

Thanks for the encouragement! It helps a lot. I've been in a bit of a black hole for a few weeks since my husband died suddenly, and feel sure that getting fitter will help me. Will keep you updated.....

[MarkyD Graduate in reply to Hcjones]

I am very sorry to hear about the death of your husband. What a shock for you. The black hole can be consuming and we are not strong enough to fight against it. And the help offered by friends and family comes well meaning, but at the wrong times. But you will land on your feet, and you can cling to others from time to time, just to take a short break.

Running may give you some time on your own, in the fresh air and a chance to test your physical ability. We are here for you.

[Hidden]

I'm not surprised that it is hard to find motivation given your recent bereavement. I am sure you will find the programme helpful in getting you up and moving. The structure will pull and push you along and the members of the forum will be your support. I agree with others, stop thinking and start running.

Running helps with physical health but it also (can only speak for me but I think it's a common experience) provides moments of mental peace and tranquility in a busy busy world. It gives time to think and time to be.

So put your shoes on and do what Laura (or whoever) tells you. Let us know how you get on 👍

[Hcjones]

Thanks! I am sure that being part of a group, even a virtual one will help. I plan to join the local running group in time as they have a slow group 😀. But I do need to be able to run a bit first!

[mfamilias Graduate]

I'm sorry to hear about your bereavement. It's a completely different context for not being able to find the motivation to run. You've got a lot to deal with, be kind to yourself. I can only speak for myself, but running is my best psychological support - apart from giving me confidence in my ability to go through with things, it is my best method to get shot of anxiety and come home with a positive view of life. This forum is a real trove of happy, helpful people who will be delighted to accompany you on your running journey when you start. Keep us posted.

[Hcjones in reply to mfamilias]

Thanks, will do

[sarahsam76 Graduate]

So sorry to hear of your loss. Keep us posted on how you are getting on. The running group you mentioned sounds like a great idea and I am sure they would welcome you whether you had running experience or not.