I've graduated!!!! What a feeling!

[EmC25K]

I would never have believed that I would be writing this post but.... last night I did my very last run of C25K! I hope I don't sound like I'm over exaggerating when I say that this has changed my life! I now feel like I can do anything! What an amazing feeling.

10 weeks ago I could barely run for a minute. I had got myself into a (contented) rut and looked forward to nights on the sofa in front of the tv. Within a couple of weeks I saw a big difference in my fitness and my motivation. My running success encouraged me to start swimming and before I knew it exercise became a pleasure rather than a chore.

This really is the best programme and I've been encouraging those around me - I want everyone to feel the same joy that I have.

Next up - my first Parkrun. I'm a little concerned that I'll be too slow but I really want to give it a try. How have any of you who have tried it found Parkruns?

Lastly, thank you all of you for your incredible support and reassurance. You are all amazing human beings. This is such a safe place to share concerns and worries and receive fantastic advice. Thank you!

**** runs off grinning and cheering****

[Martin_Rose Graduate]

I'm running and cheering with you Em, many congratulations to you, there is no such thing as too slow for a park run.

You go for it girl, you will really enjoy it.

🏅🏅🏅

[SC1472 Graduate]

Brilliant - I was out there running with you last night. Enjoy the feeling and welcome to a new world of graduates (don't forget to claim your badge).

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Huge congratulations and really well done you!

Cheering here on the podium too! get that badge

[SueKen Graduate]

Wel done you! Another success story.

Don't be afraid of Parkrun - everyone is encouraged, even walkers so you won't be too slow. If it helps have a look at the latest results page for you local one, it will give you an idea of the range of times 🙂

[ejvcruns Graduate]

Oh yes!!! So pleased to read this. Please keep posting about your runs, it's lovely to hear what graduates are up to as well. Great job!! Please get on up to the podium!!

May I suggest not going cold turkey on a structured programme? Nice training programmes are available -- I know Nike+ Run Club app has some, people say MyAsics has some, Strava and Runkeeper have programmes included, I of course will promote my beloved Zombies, Run! app -- anyway it seems to me that we have got used to the c25k structure and it's wise to keep that going for a while.

[MikeJones68 Graduate]

Well done! I've just started week 6 and am amazed at how quickly you can build stamina

[TJMazz Graduate]

Congratulations 🎉🙌🏻🎈🏃🏻‍♀️ You must feel so happy. Hope you continue to enjoy running

[Hidden]

Nicely done, but of course this isn't your last run, it's the very first of a brand new running life, you've just passed the driving test!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Another happy customer.

Congratulations on graduating and changing your life...........no it is not an exaggeration, it is the undeniable truth that this innocent little training plan has the powwer to change lives out of all recognition.

Parkrun is the real world equivalent of this forum......welcoming, supportive and non judgmental. Many walk the whole 5k, so you are unlikely to be last.

Enjoy it. Well done you.

Keep running, keep smiling.