This morning, Sunday 20th May, I completed the Couch to 5k programme - in just under two months, I've gone from being exceptionally scared of running, to being able to run (jog, plod) for over 30 minutes.
This morning started off lovely and sunny, but by the end of the run, the cloud had set in, that didn't matter though as I found on my graduation run, that I somehow had a little left in the tank and so added a whole extra 4 minutes of running, which makes me confident that I can carry on and eventually reach the 5k!
Things I've learnt whilst undertaking this journey.
Believe in yourself, with a bit of training and persistence, our bodies really can surprise us
Believe in the programme, I know that looking ahead it can really seem as though the next week may be impossible, but some very clever exercise science bods have worked out that each week makes us ready for the next so go with the programme.
Good trainers can help, when I started with cheap-ish trainers and had some Achilles issues, but having a gait analysis in week 4 got me trainers that are comfy and supportive
Having the support of my hubby has been invaluable - yes I will never be an ultra marathon runner, or a Para, but his support and endless pride at my achievements has kept me going!
What next? I'm going to continue short (half hour) runs during the week before work, as that's all I can manage time wise, but then hubby and I will do longer runs at the weekend, building up stamina even more, I may even try to do some hills!!