Graduation run!

[Mrun1]

Today I did my graduation run and I'm actually shocked at myself. Firstly because I quit everything, especially exercise routines. When I started C25k 9 weeks ago I was sure I'd quit before week 5. The last time I did any regular exercise was in my school days, and if I'm being honest I used to skip my PE lessons regularly.

But Instead I actually found myself looking forward to my run days! Secondly I'm surprised how quickly I built up stamina. 9 weeks ago the idea of running for 30 mins was unrealistic for me. Today I realised how comfortable I was while running. Not out of breath or worrying about speed or how I looked. I was just running along enjoying the scenery and my podcast (radio 2s confessions)

I now plan on running 30 mins 3 times a week for the next few months before deciding if I want to do the bridge to 10k!

A few tips for anyone just starting out,

1. Drink plenty of water the day before and of your run. Being slightly dehydrated has ruined runs for me.

2. Make sure to take a rest day between runs!

3. Find some good music or podcasts

4. Slow and steady, don't worry about speed

5. DON'T doubt yourself, you CAN do this. No excuses!

Good luck everyone and thanks to all those on here that have given me support over the past 9 weeks!

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

So proud of you ! Massive congratulations 🥇⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to ButtercupKid]

Thank you! I still can't quite believe it. Maybe I'm not such a quitter after all...😁

[ButtercupKid Graduate in reply to Mrun1]

Clearly not a quitter at all ! All the best for the next step in your journey x

[pampam]

Well done! A true achievement!

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to pampam]

Thank you! I've been feeling really pleased with myself all day

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Many congratulations on your graduation fellow runner.

An excellent set of basic advice points...... well done.

Check out the guide to post C25K running healthunlocked.com/couchto5... for tips on future running.

Keep running, keep smiling.

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks! I'll check it out

[NCC1701 Graduate]

Congratulations. Well done.

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to NCC1701]

Thanks

[BarbieW Graduate]

Very well done - hope you are still feeling proud!

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to BarbieW]

I am indeed

[Katnap Graduate]

Congratulations and a great idea to add your own helpful tips!

Like you I'm just consolidating after recently graduating.

Keep running keep smiling 😸

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to Katnap]

Congratulations to you on your recent graduation! Feels good doesn't it!

[Katnap Graduate in reply to Mrun1]

Thank you and Good luck!

[lusmo Graduate]

Congratulations! Well done!

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to lusmo]

Thank you

[Littleangelkaz Graduate]

Congratulations! I'm 2 runs from graduation myself and have loved this journey.

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to Littleangelkaz]

Good luck! It's great isn't it, I never thought I'd enjoy running but the programme is great at making it enjoyable and achievable

[Chi_Chi Graduate]

😄👍🏻 Well done !

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to Chi_Chi]

Thanks

[Jalk]

Man congratulations, and great tips. I wasn't hydrated today and finished with a headache.

[Mrun1 Graduate in reply to Jalk]

Thanks!

I remember two runs where I wasn't hydrated enough and I got a stitch and felt so exhausted half way through my run. I was going at a slow pace so I swear it must have been down to the dyhydration.

Luckily I don't get headaches, but at least now you will always make sure you're hydrated before a run!