16 days and 5 extra pounds since W9R2 but I did it!! Graduated :) :)

[1slowcoach]

Debated with myself whether to do R3 or go back a couple of weeks on the programme. Decided new year new attitude......go for it!

It wasn't easy. The first 5 minutes was a real struggle as couldn't seem to get a good breathing pattern going. After that it decided to rain/sleet so spent next 5 minutes deciding whether to turn back home but managed to not be defeated. Was starting to feel quite good when MJ told me I was half way so kept on plodding an was totally amazed when he said just 60 seconds to go. Yes! I even gave it all I had for that time...running til totally breathless. But the feeling of achievement when he said times up you've done it, was great. The 5 minute cool down was a struggle as my legs were like jelly .

Now the target is to actually run 5k as I only managed just over 4k today and know I have done closer to 4.5 on previous runs. If I stick to the same route for a while I should be able to work out where on the run to up the pace without exhausting myself before the end.

Good luck to all those just starting week 1. Keep at it . If this old slow coach has managed it then anyone can. I was never really a runner before I started this or even liked running but now I'm starting to actually enjoy it albeit jogging rather than running but it's more than I could do this time last year. Might even do the race for life this year now that I know I could possibly cover the distance.

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Congratulations graduate, a great achievement. That badge looks terrific!

[1slowcoach Graduate in reply to Millsie-J]

Thank you very much......since grinning from ear to ear

[Millsie-J Graduate in reply to 1slowcoach]

And every right to do so Runner!

[Anthie Graduate]

A wonderful achievement!! Happy 2018 full of other enjoyable runs for you and a lot of great things too

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate]

Whoop whoop Congratulations 1slowcoach🎉🎉🎉🎉

You did it.. your first run in the New year too 👏👏👏👏

Now you can run for 30 minutes..

Happy running in 2018😊xx

[Lillybeth30mins Graduate]

Congratulations!🍾🥇🎉

[dory950 Graduate]

Well done it’s a great feeling . I graduated early December and now doing 5k three times a week . I only did it for something to do and loving it ! Keep it up you will soon get to 5k 👌

[1slowcoach Graduate in reply to dory950]

Thank you. I aim to get back to running 3 times a week to get rid of the Christmas weight gain. Hopefully get back to park runs as well. ....too many snowed off before Christmas. Now I've done 1 run I'm sure I'll get back into the swing of things

[dory950 Graduate in reply to 1slowcoach]

I’m sure you will it becomes habit which can’t be a bad thing ! Good luck and happy running