Apprehensive about getting started

Having hit 40 I'm starting to go through a mid-life crisis. Actually, mid-life would mean I live to 80 which might well be pushing it. But either way, something has to change.

I'm the heaviest I've ever been and chronically unfit. I've got a sedentary job, crap diet and it's been a decade since I've done anything resembling "regular" exercise.

So, with a sense of trepidation I'm committed to at least trying to do something about it, but it will be a long road ahead.

I've ordered some jogging bottoms off the Jacamo website (oh the indignity that Amazon didn't have my size) and as soon as they arrive I'll be good to go. Hopefully my first run should be this weekend; in the meantime I've been on a couple of walks just to do something as I wait.

Watch this space.

[Jell6 Graduate]

As long as you have decent running shoes the rest doesn’t matter, before long you will have drawers full of gear. It’s an addiction 😬😬😬

Get out there, you’ll be fine (eventually, I’m not kidding the first week nearly killed me!!)

Slowly push through it, keep reading the posts, they will inspire you .

[Beccym Graduate]

Good luck. Walking is a good way to start. I am 48 in two months and started running at 44. I am now completely addicted, although I didn't complete the couch to 5k properly for 2 years!

I have now joined a running club and completed 2 half marathons, run cross country. I am not the fastest and I have an unusual running style but I really don't care.

Don't expect the weight to fall off immediately just think of it as improving your health, remember any exercise is better than none.

Enjoy the journey and remember the program works. This forum is very supportive and will give you lots of top tips.

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

Nothing will change until you make a change. You're making a start and that's what counts. You can do this and it will give you so much back.

Good luck 👍😁

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate]

Hi Ricky, welcome to the forum and well done on deciding to start C25K😊

This plan really works, and is for everyone..there is a guide here with tips on how to run the program, and as Jell6 says, you just need a decent pair of trainers to get you started.

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

The running need only be a gentle jog, take it slow and steady. Each run builds you up for the next...

Good luck with Wk1 R1..keep posting so we can cheer you on!😊

[CarolR2 Graduate]

Well done on making this commitment! Good luck with the first run

[Nannalyn53 Graduate]

You have done one of the hardest things which is to recognise that the solution is in your hands - or maybe legs in this case! You definitely will be able to do it if you follow the programme and all the tips on this forum. I hadn’t run for over 50 years when I started but now love it. I’m slow but don’t give a flying f***. It makes me feel fantastic, though I struggled as much as most to begin with. All the best.

[Jen58]

Well done for deciding to get off the couch that’s a big step in its self , you have come to the right place for support

👍🏻😊

[Amandana]

Awesome Ricky!!

I am 36 and feeling much the same as you. I've had two kids and now spend all my working days at a desk, where I used to be active for at least half the day. My body has changed and I am having a really hard time dealing with it.... starting running has been a lot more challenging than I expected, but I'm listening to my body and walking when running seems a bad idea (joint pain). I started the c25k journey thinking I could run a 5k race 11 weeks after starting up and have come to realize that's not realistic for me... and that's ok. I'm still going to participate in the race, but will definitely be walking some of it. It will take as long as it takes, I will keep at it. I've definitely had some very down days, feeling regret that I didn't do this sooner, that I let myself get to where I am, etc, but I know that I'm doing the right thing for my body. Now is the best time to do this! There is no time in the life ahead that will be any easier. Anyway - all this to say, you are not alone!

There are some very inspiring stories on the community. You can do this! Walking regularly is a great start! I am walking on days when running isn't in the cards to keep my body moving.

[JoP61 Graduate]

Good luck - trust in the programme! You can do it! 😀👍

[Tbae]

Best decision of your fitness life.🌟👏👏

Active 10 and weight loss communities here also. All complimentary with the C25k programme.👍

You have come to the best supportive forum in every way.🌟👏🤔

[Decker]

No worries Ricky. Many of us are mid-life - whatever that is- 🙂I also started C25 last year when I turned 50, and I am training for a half marathon now. Everyone has different goals and this forum is very supportive. The longest journey starts with one step and you took it. Enjoy the ride!

[Hidden]

Thanks everyone for your words of encouragement.

[Hidden]

Well done for deciding you want to do something for your health. It’s a lovely programme and a great bunch of people to support you through the weeks.

Get your shoes sorted - that is by far the most important piece as your feet are your running foundation. Oh and please let us know how you’re getting on we love the updates

Good luck and happy running