Week 3 Run 1: If you'd told me 3 weeks ago that... - Couch to 5K

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Week 3 Run 1

TimB19 profile image
TimB19Graduate
10 Replies

If you'd told me 3 weeks ago that I would be running 3 minutes without stopping, I'd have suggested that you were being supremely optimistic and asked for a pint of what you were drinking.

If I were to advertise in the small ads (I don't btw-married 29 years with three children all over 18), then I would be surprised if any ladies were forming an orderly queue. I'm reasonably active (a large black Labrador means regular walks), but the vision I have of myself is rarely matched by the grey haired going a bit portly reflection I occasionally catch sight of in the M&S mirrors as I pop in for lunch (and that chocolate bar can't harm. Or those crisps...)

Bank holiday Monday still sees that portly grey haired bloke doing the rounds. Not in a suit, but t shirt shorts and running shoes. And punching the air when Run 1 of Week 3 is ticked off the list. Friday night pints at Kingsholm were sweated out on Saturday evening. Saturday night pints and curry, and Sunday pints and BBQ weighed heavy this morning, but I persevered and even added a further 10 seconds to the last run to reach a physical (and mental) landmark.

It's undoubtedly right that the first day of each week is the toughest. After that, the rest of the week falls into place. After just trying to do the absolute minimum (trying perhaps the wrong word-breathlessly striving may be more accurate) in week one, I'm already planning a week ahead. Have found a pace that suits, a course that works, and a routine that fits in with work and family commitments.

If you're looking at this as a first weeker, or because you want reassurance that you can do it- just do it. If a fat bloke in his 50s can do it, you can. If you can walk to the shops at lunchtime, you can. If you can walk the dog, you can.

Trust in yourself and give it a go.

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TimB19 profile image
TimB19
Graduate
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10 Replies

We all knew it.... and now you do, that is a result👍👟🏃🏼

Kimchoc08 profile image
Kimchoc08Graduate

I find myself in the same position as you having just completed WK3 Run 1 and like you, thought I'd never be able to do it but I did!! Keep on running and let's hope we both get to WK9 Run 3 🏃🏼🏃🏻‍♀️

rolysmate profile image
rolysmateGraduate

as a very nearly 60, pot bellied ex 20 day man like you I never thought in a month of Sundays that I would be running but look at me now a graduate runner.

Yep anything is possible!

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate in reply to rolysmate

.... and looking good too!!!

Bluebirdrunner profile image
BluebirdrunnerGraduate

Great attitude TimB😊..and you are doing it!!💪

Onwards and upwards...

Hj14 profile image
Hj14

Just finished week 2 and I'm really worried that week 3 is going to be a complete failure! Any advice?

Polly2810 profile image
Polly2810Graduate in reply to Hj14

Just trust yourself and the programme...it's got me to wk 6! It works honest.

TimB19 profile image
TimB19Graduate in reply to Hj14

Find a comfortable pace (remember-this is NOT about speed) and settle into it. Week 3 starts with a 90second run. Use that just to get comfortable. If you can, find a favourite song that last three minutes. Sing along to it (in your head, or out loud-who cares). Make sure that you don't rush it-you're not running a distance, just a time. Slow and steady. You will do it. Honest.

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate in reply to Hj14

Just slow and steady.. you are ready for this.. have faith in yourself !

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Great post.... especially for those newbies, timidly heading out! Well done you!

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