alone or in a group?

[Pugly]

Hi, I am planning on doing my first run this afternoon. I am well over 60 and would like to see if I can get a few more of similar age to join me. Is this a good idea or is it easier to start by yourself?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

While many find the social aspects of group running to be a bonus, I personally recommend doing the plan by yourself. That way there is no compromise or comparison of pace, so you run at your pace, when you want to and nobody is going to let you down by not turning up, as almost inevitably happens over the course of the programme.

If you still want to run in a group many running clubs and leisure centres run beginners and C25k courses.

Enjoy your journey.

[Pugly Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Many thanks. I will read the plan.

[Jell6 Graduate]

I would say on your own, but we are all different. 😊

Whatever you choose, enjoy it.

[Pugly Graduate in reply to Jell6]

Many thanks. I have just returned from my first run and feel great.

[E27M14 Graduate]

I started on my own. My partner saw how much I was enjoying it and decided to join in. Now we run together whenever we can. He encourages me to keep going when it gets tough, and I keep him from speeding off too fast. Sometimes though, because of other commitments, we do have to run on our own and I enjoy that too because it becomes much more a personal battle between my body and mind. Nice to do both I think.

[gotmytrainers]

I did C25K the first time with a group at work. I really liked the group mentality as I had a reason to go and could have snatches of conversation as we puffed along.

Now I’m starting it again for the second time (a year on) I’m much more antisocial 😂. I think I’m going to listen to a podcast or music instead to keep me going.

Whatever you choose - make sure you run! Half the time I don’t feel like running but once I’m changed and am outside it’s always worth it.