W2R1 and my first outdoors!

[Runeshadow92]

I’m a large girl and I desperately wanted to add some exercise in to try and boost my confidence and reduce me waist line so I Started c25k last week at the gym. I chose to do the first week on the treadmill because I was dead self conscience about how I would look flailing about trying to run outdoors and didn’t want everyone to laugh at me! This next week is super busy for me so I thought I’d get in another run today so I don’t feel so guilty about missing one on Friday but the only problem, my gym is near work and miles away from me and Sunday buses are a nightmare! Anyway, after seeing all the inspirational photos and post on here from you guys, I decided to be brave and do an outdoor run at the local park. Chose very early on Sunday morning to break out the trainers to reduce the chance of seeing anyone and I’m so proud to say I did it and it felt amazing!!! Headphones in, music blasting and it was like I was invisible! Going forward, i’ll Still use the gym once or twice a week (it’s very near work so no excuse not to go on my way home) but will definitely be throwing some outdoor runs in on my days off! I think I’m hooked!!!

[Rumour Graduate]

Glad to hear you braved the great outdoors. One thing we found with running is that people don't see an overweight person, they don't see two old fossils trying to run. They see runners! I can say this not only because that is all we have ever seen, but because others have told us the same.

Running outdoors is a pleasure. We run on a Tuesday and Thursday at 6am and on Sunday at 7am so we get a lay in. We are both in our 60's and a little overweight, but the encouragement we have had from fellow runners is awesome. Plus, we run at a country park, so the vista is beautiful and full of wildlife.

Keep on keeping on and let the world see you. Feel proud of what you are doing and know there are lots still sitting on the couch, wishing they could do what you are doing xx

[Runeshadow92 in reply to Rumour]

Might have to save this somewhere to keep me inspired why it’s getting tough! Thank you so much!

[sallenson Graduate]

Good for you. You're a courageous lady.

Most people won't notice you. And the ones that do will probably feel envious and wish they had the b*lls to do what you're doing.

Get committed and stay committed and you'll fly through this!!

[Runeshadow92 in reply to sallenson]

Thanks! I know it’s only week 2 and it’s gonna get really tough but I can’t help but think why i didn’t do this sooner!

[Jay66UK Graduate]

I don’t know what you mean by “a large girl” but there are lots of larger female runners. A long time ago I used to work with Prof Sophie Scott, often on The Infinite Monkey Cage who did the Christmas Lectures on TV this year. She is a larger lady and she regularly runs.

I’m a bloke and 5 stone overweight, all on the belly. I just choose to run, and if folk think I look wrong it’s their problem. But I recognise the “bloke” bit is a massive difference in our society.

Be proud of what you are doing for yourself. I hope the running gives you even a fraction of the confidence boost it’s given me.

And remember if you get a catcall or anything, it’s not what people do it’s how you let them make you feel. Are they important enough to spoil your run or your day?

Good luck with the next run x

[Jullaly Graduate in reply to Jay66UK]

Im listening to some of the podcasts of the infinite monkey cage while I run. I love a bit of Brian Cox ..but dont tell him its a young Isaac Newton I have as my classroom pinup!

[Runeshadow92 in reply to Jay66UK]

Thank you. I’m about 6 stone heavier than the ideal weight for my height and like you most of it is on the waist! I feel so much better just after today so can’t wait to see how that grows!

[Jay66UK Graduate in reply to Runeshadow92]

That’s great to hear. The hardest thing is stepping outside. And the rest of the world just rolls on! Wishing you all the best for your running x

[icklegui Graduate in reply to Jay66UK]

I love that bit - "are they important enough to spoil your run or your day"! A good reminder for anyone who encounters someone who makes them feel bad in any way.

[Nictwit Graduate]

Yay! Outside is great fun 😁

[Hidden]

Ooh, well done ... This is very encouraging as this is my main worry. I’m 4 stone overweight and want to start couch25K but am feeling self conscious about wobbling along outside. Thank you for posting 😊

[Runeshadow92 in reply to Hidden]

I’m a little over 6 stone heavier than the ‘ideal weight’ for my height and got so fed up of not being able to walk into any shop and just pick up something cute and it be in my size! Find what will motivate you the most to get you started and once you do, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner!

[Jullaly Graduate]

Running will definitely boost your confidence. Im a larger gal! Before C25K I had no confidence in my ability believing that because I was overweight I couldnt run ..what nonsense that turned out to be. Im onto week 8 now, my fitness has improved tremendously and im seriously hooked.

[Runeshadow92 in reply to Jullaly]

Wow, that’s so inspiring! I was amazed I even managed a minute last week so low was my confidence in my ability. Now I’m just determined to keep going and do the best I can and see what happens!

[KazH01 Graduate]

Well done you. I empathise totally and you right nobody cares and if anything I am surprised how encouraging people are. I was the same this morning decided to throw off my coat and get out there with a long sleeved Tee Shirt instead and much more comfortable. Keep going I’ve just completed week 3 and feeling great