Starting from scratch

[Runlikethewend]

Hi Everyone. A slightly older lady, I decided to take up running recently. I've just found this website and am pleased to have a proper plan to follow. I'm a regular walker and do cycle occasionally but at this early stage I'm finding the running very hard, which makes me even more determined to graduate!

[Ruthy180 Graduate]

Hi runlikethewend! I too found it incredibly hard to start with but it does get easier, honestly! Keep at it and you'll soon see results.

[Runlikethewend Graduate in reply to Ruthy180]

Thank you! I'm determined to stick with it and achieve my goals.

[VictoriaRuns Graduate]

If you are finding it too hard, don't be afraid to slow down. Despite hearing it often, this came as a revelation to me around week 4/5. Slow running builds legs, and it's the act of running itself that is so unique (even if you go slower than your brisk walking pace - it still counts!), just try to stick to a pace that you know you could achieve until the end of your run.

I have no doubt you will stick to your goals though as you said! Keep posting here so we can give you pats on the back as you go by

[Runlikethewend Graduate in reply to VictoriaRuns]

Thank you so much! I will. I came back today for a look round and am overwhelmed at the support and lovely welcome.

[Cliff_H Graduate]

Good for you! It’s tough going but trust the programme and don’t try to go too fast and you’ll be amazed how you do.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Welcome... this is a great place to be..there are many of us, slightly more Seasoned runners here

Take it slow and steady, check out this very useful link too, before you go any further, and keep posting for great support and advice too

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[davelinks Graduate]

Well done! just keep it slow and steady and push on through..😊

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Hello and welcome! You are at the start of an exciting journey!

Have you downloaded the podcast so the voice of Laura can take you along with her? It means you don't have to check your watch repeatedly but just follow the program.

I am 58 and completely new to running - it has been an astonishing discovery with so many benefits.

Go slowly- really slow, it's fine to go at walking pace, - then it won't feel so difficult. Pace can develop later on.

Let us know how you are getting on so we can cheer for you. 😃

[Runlikethewend Graduate in reply to Elfe5]

Hi, thank you for the welcome and advice. I have an app on my phone which tells me when to run and when to walk which is a great help. It tells me that I'm jogging at around 6mph which I'm very happy with for now. I must say I'm really enjoying it even though it's so hard.

[Hidden]

Welcome. You have made a great, life changing decision. Many of us are not in the first flush of youth but we are all in the prime of our lives

[GoogleMe Graduate]

Anyone with the wit to come up with such a great screen name can surely do this running thing!

[Anthie Graduate]

Enjoy the programme: you'll soon be addicted to running... It's the only risk you may face if you follow all the advice on the site and take the time to stretch properly (also on rest days). And take your time: the slower, the better!

[Runlikethewend Graduate]

Thank you all so much for such a great welcome! I'm delighted to say I completed week 1 on Friday and today completed day 1 of week 2. The last run was a real push but the feeling once it was done was worth every bit of effort. I can't wait to get out again on Wednesday.