Hello C25k'ers

[MikeJones68]

Hello all! It's been a while since I posted in the c25k forum, so I thought I'd try and give everyone who's doing the programme some encouragement.

I started c25k last October just after hitting my 49th birthday, hoping to do something worthwhile before the big 50. Like many on here, I hadn't really run since being at school. The first of the longer runs in the programme were really hard work and had me wondering how on earth I'd ever run for 30 minutes, let alone do 5k.

I graduated c25k in January and much to my surprise I found I was doing just over 5k in the 30 minutes. My goal was to continue running 2 or 3 times a week and try to do at least 5k each time. I have actually been running 6k+ on most runs and have since managed 10k. I've also joined a running club at work, which I have found really enjoyable. Running in a group is really good encouragement.

From starting as a non-runner just 6 months ago, I have beaten my personal best for 5k today at 23:22 and ran 6.11k in less than 29 minutes. The post run feeling is an amazing buzz. So, if anyone doubts their ability to finish this programme, I'm telling you to believe in yourself. If I can do it, then YOU CAN DO IT TOO!

Happy running

[Grimreaper]

Congratulations u are doing great 👍 i m yet to clear my w1r1 ... but ppl like you are inspiration for me to keep marching ahead

[MikeJones68 Graduate in reply to Grimreaper]

Go for it and stick with the programme. You will be glad you did!

[Bridget007 Graduate]

Wow go you! And speedy too 😀

[TedG Graduate]

I’ll echo everything Mike has said except his pace/time and age! 😱

I started the programme in Oct and graduated in Dec aged 69 doing the London 5k Santa Run in memory of my sister. Previously, I hadn’t run since my schooldays and I hated it because I wasn’t any good at it!

I can’t see myself doing a 30min 5k as it’s unlikely I’ll get any quicker at my age 😬

I’ve since graduated over the 10k distance and I have the Oxford 10k race in 2weeks. Then it’s a case of increasing my mileage again for the Great North Run in September.....provided I can stay injury free 😊

As Mike said if we can do it so can you. It has certainly changed my life for the good. I’m totally addicted to running now and all the fitness training that comes with it.

Stick at it, you’ll be glad you did 🤗

[MikeJones68 Graduate in reply to TedG]

Go Ted! I admire you for your event entries. I've still not even done a park run!

[TedG Graduate in reply to MikeJones68]

Thanks Mike 😊 PR’s are serious fun, you’re talking about an hour out of your day 😜