Am I useless or correct?

[Smizz]

So last week was the start of week 2 and all week I really struggled and never actually managed to finish it! So this week instead of moving on, I’ve restarted week 2 and yesterday managed to finish a run for the first time. That was the right thing to do right? I’ve never ran in my life before, but with certain in laws keep calling me fat and the views I get when I run, I’m really motivated to complete it, but can’t help but feel a little useless at having to restart a week.

[RBB99]

Whatever feels best for you is the right thing. I completed week 2 on Sunday run 2 and 3 were so difficult. I didn't feel like I made an progress. I've been thinking about repeating week 2 but instead I'm going to do run 1 of week 3 and if i struggle but a run from week 2 in the middle and finish the week (hopefully) on a week 3 run again.

[Hidden]

It is never useless to exercise, and if it feels better to do some weeks twice, then why not? Unless I am mistaken, the point if this app is to get people moving, in a steady and responsible way. Whether your journey takes 9 weeks or 14 is irrelevant - in my non-specialist opinion 😄 Keep going at your own pace, you can do it! I am a new runner myself and I am rubbish- but you know what? Much to my surprise I am enjoying it 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️😀

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Never, ever, ever feel useless.

You are awesome and you do this programme your way and enjoy it in the process!!!

Each run builds on the one before, each week on the one before and we need to complete those runs... so, if you struggled, then take it again as slow as you like. Think snail on a go slow.

Have no fears about onlookers, they are jealous and wish they were doing it

Many folk felt nervous about being out, running in the dark and wearing dark clothing..now..out there shouting to the world. " Look at me I am a runner"

As for the in-laws... well... I leave you with this quote..

"You can't change how people treat you or what they say about you. All you can do is change how you react to it."

And you are reacting wonderfully, by showing them just what you can do and who you are

Slow and steady and I shall watch for your next post

[Smizz in reply to Oldfloss]

I’m not sure if I’m hormonal or what, but this brought a little tear to my eye. Thanks for all of the kind words and motivation. I’m feeling much better about it now!!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to Smizz]

Go girl.. we are right here with you.. every step of the way!!!

[Adamdrew31]

I started week 2 yesterday and found it hard work. If don't complete all runs I will definitely repeat week. Forget what anyone else thinks I'm doing this for me not them 🤣

[Hidden]

You are not useless.. not at all! Do whatever feels best for you.. this is your journey.x

[Dexy5 Graduate]

Well done for sticking with it. You need to do what feels right for you, even if it means repeating runs. You won't believe this , but it does get to feel better.

[RainbowC Graduate]

I’ve always repeated weeks if I didn’t complete the runs fully - but I know some people do move on regardless.

[Jell6 Graduate]

You are up and out, it will take as long as it takes, and some will be harder than others but then when you do it, you will feel so good.

At this stage every run is a challenge, as it it new and demanding, it's building and preparing. This is how the programme works, and you do have to push yourself.

As for your in laws.... you are doing this for you.

Beautiful photo, well done and enjoy it 🚶‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Well done. Perseverance pays.

Do read the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... it is full of tips.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hidden]

Not useless! Good luck

[limberlou Graduate]

Probably if you are still struggling by the end of the week you are running too fast, seriously!!! run as slow as your brisk walk. You can always speed up later on.

[Smizz in reply to limberlou]

I found it a lot easier yesterday. I already run as slow as I can as it is. I think I just need to persevere and push through the mental blocks sometimes. 😕

[limberlou Graduate in reply to limberlou]

I did the week 1 and did 5 runs ? With rest days between) instead of 3 because I didn’t feel ready to move on to week 2. And I’m on week 6 run 2 today.

Keep it up, you can do it, we’re all behind you!!! Well some are in front but you know what I mean 🤣