Week 1 complete.

[samcam1985]

After having not done exercise properly for a couple of years and gaining lots of weight I finally decided to take up the couch to 5k challenge.

I have just finished my 3rd run of week 1 and found it much harder than the first 2 hoping it gets easier- feel like a small hippo and didn't know 60 seconds was so long - onwards and upwards.

[LLK_13]

I’m 1 run ahead but similar to you, haven’t exercised for 2-3 years and put on loads of weight.

Starting W2R1 today I was apprehensive as it’s 30 seconds longer running but the rests are longer too. My mood after the run was much much better than starting. I’ve found it’s gotten easier so just keep going! Xx

[rolysmate Graduate]

Every run/week will be a challenge but every run you do strengthens you a little bit more ready for the next run

[Anthie Graduate]

As Rolysmate said, every run is an improvement even if it feels hard on you. Don't forget to slow down if you're struggling: you shouldn't be out of breath. Have you practised some of the stretching exercises on rest days and after your runs? They're just as important if you want to feel comfortable and they'll help your body adjust to this new running agenda. Be confident! You'll be ready for your next runs.

[Novice_]

I too found run 3 much harder, I've given myself 2 rest days but am planning my run for tuesday. I'm really scared of upping the running x x

[Anthie Graduate in reply to Novice_]

Don't be scared! Relax: this is like a game, not an exam. You can't fail because even if you don't finish the run and you walk, you're still doing something (instead of sitting in your couch). You just do it again. Take your time and you're right to get extra rest days if you feel you need it. Trust the programme and your body, slow down and enjoy!

[Novice_ in reply to Anthie]

Thank you, had a busy week-decided to stick with wk1 run for Tuesday then I've not got out until today but I did wk2 run 1, it wasn't as bad as I imagined and I managed all the running (just). I'm hoping to get out again Monday x

[Anthie Graduate in reply to Novice_]

Well done! You can still slow down if it feels very tough (think that you should be able to hold a conversation while you're running and do not worry to be running as slow as walking...). I don't know if you saw that video posted by Donna, on slow jogging. It will show you how to slow down. I actually tried the technique on Wednesday, you never get out of breath and it feels like gliding (I managed 6 or 7k but I had to stretch my calves very carefully for the next couple of days because landing on the forefoot is not that easy!). At least it can give you an idea and you can try.

youtube.com/watch?v=9L2b2kh...(Not working as expected?)

Enjoy your next run!

[DeterminedBear Graduate]

Stick with it. You will reap the rewards given the posts made by forum members!