Hi, I'm new here and have just downloaded the couch to 5k app.
I need to lose weight and want to improve my health. I recently had my 2nd baby and am due to get married this year. More importantly I suffer with health anxiety and know from previous experience how good exercise has been in improving my anxiety symptoms.
Trying to get started with my running- any tips or advice welcome!
Lots of people will be along with lots of detailed advice so I'll keep it simple: just start.
I had the app on my phone for months before I started and it was silly to be nervous, the first run is very gentle and after that it just draws you in.
Bear in mind you won't lose much in the way of weight just by running but you will feel a lot better, and I can vouch for the positive mental effects.
The main thing you have now to decide is who will be your coach/mentor so let me put a word in for the amazing voice of Michael Johnson.
Thank you for your reply! I've had it on my phone for over a week 😕
I've a slot on a Sunday where I have an hour free-without children! So I'm hoping to get into the habit of running then. I know routine is good for maintaining commitment.
For me it's more the benefit to my mental health than weight loss that's important. So I'm glad to hear you can vouch for that!
I did listen to the first run with Sarah's voice and I didn't feel it worked for me so I might try Michael!
Hi , just take it at your own pace , when you have to do the running you don’t have to fly off like a mad thing find a gentle pace that you can keep at . Ive only been out twice come home knackered but what a buzz and a fantastic feeling of accomplishment. Be strong and good luck but most of enjoy !
Thank you! I want to enjoy it, I want to look forward to going out to do it- and get that feeling of accomplishment you describe! Your post is very encouraging 😊
I was very loyal to Jo Wiley to begin with, but moved on to Michael J. Hmmmmm. Lovely voice and very encouraging!
Running has made me calmer and cheerier, I swear. I used to suffer some mild depression but it seems to have kicked that to the curb!
Run nice and slow and try to keep that pace steady. The key is to complete the runs, speed is of no matter. And be persistent! You will manage it beautifully. Everyone finds the first few runs challenging, but honestly, it is truly joyful to feel yourself get fitter with every run!
Sadie-runs x
Thanks Sadie, it's helpful to hear experiences of others- makes me want to get started! I'd like me some calm and cheer 👐 and definitely looking to feel fitter and healthier and less sloth like!
My advice is to read the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... it will answer many questions.
Enjoy your journey.
Thank you for the advice! I will have a read through 👍
And another benefit is that you’re setting your children a good example!
I’m only on week 3 (though been doing it for longer/ stopped over Christmas and started again!) but I’m completely hooked!! Which is quite amusing to me having never exercised before in my 41 years!!
You’re going to love it, everyone who does it seems to! Good luck!!
Thank you for the support! I'm definitely feeling more motivated to start with everyone's encouragement!
Just follow the programme it is designed for everyone - rest days are just as important as running days I’ve found and if you need more than one to recover that’s fine. Slow and steady definitely wins the race. There will always be good and bad days but no matter how hard I always feel better at the end and mentally it’s very uplifting- good luck on your journey 🏃♀️🙌
Welcome. Two things which l drill into myself are:
i) Trust and follow the programme.
ii) Don't look beyond the next run.
Good Luck
P
I like that! Especially not looking beyond the next run... just following the programme, enjoying the moment your in and celebrating the achievement. Your words have been very helpful, thank you! 😊
Well done for getting the support. I started the app when my baby was 5 weeks and love it. I have also found it has really helped reduce my anxiety heaps and given me some confidence. Often I run on my own for a bit of me time leaving Daddy with h7s daughter but a couple of times have done a buggy run if my partner is out or working late. The main thing is to follow the programme and trust it. But also don't be hard on yourself if you miss a run...in theory should have finished by now but due to colds and exhaustion as a result of having a baby I still have 2 weeks left. I feel amazing and also knowing I am setting a good exame to my daughter gives me the motivation I need. GOOD LUCK!
Thank you! I really appreciate your reply, having my 2nd baby (4 months now!) Has left me feeling heavier, unfit and battling a rise in my anxiety- So is really like to start improving those symptoms and how I feel about myself. I will have opportunity to leave baby with Dad so hope this helps in keeping me motivated! Thanks for the inspiration 😊
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