Started this week

[Jay66UK]

Hi. I started running on Sunday and did my second run yesterday. I’m a 51 year old bloke and I haven’t really done any exercise for many years, with about 5 stone to lose to be at the so-called ideal weight for my height/build. I’m running to get fit which I hope will increase my confidence following marital separation earlier this year. I found the first run really hard - I bought some low price trainers and running gear weeks ago and then the winter returned - but bit the bullet on Sunday. I found it hard going but enjoyed the buzz after. Yesterday was easier to start (despite drizzle) but harder to finish. Next run planned for Friday.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome and well done on getting started.

The guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

You will not regret this decision.

Enjoy your journey.

[Jen58]

You have come to the right place for support

Well done you for getting started,

You can and will do this 👍🏻

Only thing is it seems to be quite addictive once you get started

[AliMama]

I am on week 6 now and actually get twitchy if I can't go for my run. It's weird how it goes from being hard work to something you enjoy (but still hard work). I joined slimming world too to help with the weight loss and I seenweek after week the male members who exercise too shedding pounds. Run yes, eat sensible too and you will see the rewards in a slimmer happier you with a mended self esteem.

Good luck to you x

[Jay66UK Graduate in reply to AliMama]

Thanks! I recognise just running isn’t going to shed the weight so I’m trying to eat healthily too. Will see how the weight looks in a few weeks before whether deciding to go down the Slimming World route.

[Hidden in reply to Jay66UK]

Slimming World is great. I did it abt 20 odd years ago & lost 2 stone. I never put it back on again until I had a baby! It really does work. It's not a diet - it's a healthy eating plan. Good luck with the running - you really won't regret it!

[Jay66UK Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Thanks! My (Welsh) dad told me to always pay heed to Welsh witches!

[Hidden in reply to Jay66UK]

Ha ha! My dad was Welsh too - I'm only half Welsh but I love it there. I haven't started running yet - planning to start after the Easter break. I'm returning to exercise after illness - I've put on half a stone since I haven't exercised - it's been nearly a year. I prefer the treadmill gym tho. Just goes to show how good exercise is .

[Jay66UK Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Well, week 1 is certainly manageable if someone as out of shape as me can do it. Good luck when you start. (Also only half Welsh.)

[GingerBohemian Graduate]

Jay66UK

I started this last year as a 49 year old who had not exercised for decades other than walking to the pub. I got through it and loved it. I am not saying that it was easy but it gave me focus.

Take it nice and slow. Replace the word 'run' with 'stumbling shuffle' and you will be fine. Too many people think they need to be sprinting.

You have done the hardest part and that is making the decision to make a change. Good for you mate.

Enjoy the journey.

[AliMama]

I don't know about where you live but here it's a fifty fifty split if men and women at our slimming world group. But tbh it's just common sense. I knew if I sat drinking wine and eating cheese and crisps almost every night and never getting any exercise I would pile on the pounds....which I did. The important part is where you are! Getting up and doing something about it. Brilliant! Good luck with your journey

[JoP61 Graduate]

Well done on starting this programme - you've already done the most difficult bit. Take it slow and steady and trust in the programme - it really works! I'll be running again on Friday so will think of you. Good luck and keep posting - this forum will help you get there as well, with lots of really good advice and humour! 😀👍

[ebcroquet]

Don’t forget the best pace is your pace - plenty of good advice here for you 🏃‍♂️🙌