Couch to 5k

[Dobbies]

I am 63 and now into week 7. Cannot believe that I can run 25 minutes without stopping I could hardly do that when I was at school. I did very little exercise walking the dog about an hour 3 times a week. I have stuck to the programme rigidly even doing it while on holiday. I run before I go to work as I feel I would not do it later in the day and also I do not want the neighbours to see me!!! It means an early rise but on these beautiful mornings there is nothing like it and that feel good feeling lasts all day. My son calls it runner high. As long as no underlying health issues go for it you will surprise yourself.

[Denovo]

Of a similar age to you, I was pretty chuffed to manage the 20 minutes in week 5, especially in this heat. Just done the first of the two easier sessions in week 6 and hoping they will prepare me for the 25 mins I need to complete the week.

[Dobbies in reply to Denovo]

When I saw the 20 minute run in week 5 with no stops my initial reaction was I’ll never do this. I was down south visiting my son and he ran with me and it was fine. When I had 25 minutes to do I thought never but I managed although it was tough. In my head I sing the lyrics from ‘keep right on to the end of the road’ by Sir Harry Lauder. There may be times when I sing out loud - another reason to run at 6 in the morning!!! I did run 2 of week 7 this morning which is 3rd 25 minute run and felt I am getting there. Keep going it does get easier although I do not think I will complete 5 k in 30 minutes.

[KatieJayne in reply to Denovo]

I felt the same about the week 5 run of 20 minutes. Can’t believe I actually did it! On to week 6 now and so glad of the two easier runs coming first. Now I’ve no idea how I’m going to do the 25 minutes at the end of the week! I’m sure it’s more of a mental challenge for me now. But having Michael Johnson as a trainer definitely helps me to believe!

[cheekychipmunks Graduate]

Fabulous, well done! You’re not far from the finish line now. That must feel wonderful (I’m a week behind you!)

We can do this! 😀🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️😀

[Hidden]

I'm the same age and same stage as you! I know how you feel about being seen by the neighbours but I find I'm less self conscious now that I'm doing the longer runs. Glad to hear you're enjoying it.

[Dawnie16 Graduate]

Well done you. I'm 60 this year and before the programme had no exercise now I'm actually looking forward to my 3 runs a week...not fast and can't get to 5k yet....but I will 😊😊 go us !!!

[Nannalyn53 Graduate]

Congratulations! I’m a similar age and since graduating in March have maintained the 3 times a week habit. With this and my yoga, I’ve never felt better. I stopped worrying about speed or distance but can do 6 k on a good day. I’ve found all along that the mental challenge is more pervasive than the physical to be honest. Like you I used to worry about other people’s reactions but now I don’t care at all - just went to the shop for milk straight after my run and didn’t think of it until someone I only know by sight who was in the shop said how much she admired me for running! So forget the greats and just do your thing!

[Big_maz]

I agree entirely with all of you I’m on week 7 never felt better I’m 61 but feel better than I did at 50 😊

[Jay66UK Graduate]

Ah the deep, post-run calm. My favourite thing and it will get me through another long day at work today. Enjoy your next run.

[Denovo in reply to Jay66UK]

Ha, ha, the deep post-run calm tends to morph into a CbA to do anything now state or even into a nap too often for me, so I dare not run before doing work or anything important

[Jay66UK Graduate in reply to Denovo]

I share CbA, but more in a “I’m not going to let anything worry me” way.

I imagine this is like certain recreational drugs.