Newbie.

[lepoissonquirit]

Is this possible to do without any sort of strength training alongside? Was very active 20 years ago and did manage a few 10k races about 10 years ago but not been active since and any attempt at getting back into it has always caused an injury after 2 or 3 runs.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

If you follow the instructions given both on the app but in more detail in this guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... then you will be running at a very gentle jog and injury risk is about as low as possible.

Rest day non impact cross training helps other parts of your body to develop in sync with your legs, which can help minimise injury also, but is not essential.

Don't try to recreate your former glories, but take it slow, to build stamina and endurance..........speed can follow later.

Keep us posted.

[Cornet-Carolyn Graduate]

Welcome, as IT said take it slow and steady and follow the plan and you should be fine. Enjoy the journey 👍

[RainbowC Graduate]

I’d love to do some other kind of activity or exercise - strength training, Pilates, yoga, whatever - but it’s as much as I can manage to try and keep running regularly! So although varied cross-training is hugely beneficial, it’s not essential at all for this programme. Take it gently, listen to your body and take appropriate rest or other precautions, and you’ll be good!

[Rumour Graduate]

This looks pretty good. It says 5 weeks, just like C25K says 9. But at your own pace will be better if you have been relatively inactive for a long while.

nhs.uk/Livewell/strength-an...