I'm new.

[Mo1989]

Hi, I'm Maria. I'm 29, I live in Scotland. I've never ran before and what to get fit and healthy before my 30th birthday in October. So starting with this challenge 3rd Jan 2019. I've got 40lbs to lose and hoping that jogging can help along with healthy eating.

[Buddy34 Graduate]

This plan will get you fit and healthy and maybe result in some weight loss with your healthy eating good luck

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

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

Enjoy your journey.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Welcome. Couple this with healthy eating and you’ll be very fit and healthy by October and the weight will be at least moving in the right direction. Enjoy your journey to you goals.

[Windhover]

I've been doing this for five weeks and one of the biggest benefits is the effect it has on self confidence and self esteem and general mental wellbeing, as well as the obvious physical benefits. Even after the first run... These psychological effects feed into other elements of your life, so you will probably naturally make healthier choices. I don't know if i lost weight because i never weigh myself - i think it makes me depressed! But i have noticed my body is toning up and i'm enjoying the challenge. I'm twice your age by the way so you have a huge headstart already! Go for it, it is definitely worth it and it does change your life for the better. And the best thing is when you find yourself running for longer than ever thought you could. Good luck! x

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Welcome and well done.. follow the link to the Newbie post..

Slow and steady as you go and maybe take a peel at our sister site..Weight Loss NHS...many folk on here are on that forum also. They say it works wonderfully!

Keep posting too for great advice and encouragement

[Dannybhoy625 Graduate]

Good luck Maria,hope you enjoy the challenge. It can become addictive!

[theoldfellow]

I'm really pleased that you are doing this while you are so young. I left it to 68...

But it is still worth it!

Welcome aboard!👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[ladyofcastile]

Hey, Maria! I am 54 and preparing right now for a 10 miles off road in the dark across Moor Valley Country Park on January 12th. I started running just over 2 years ago. My first race was on October 2016. And I had a big bum! First thing: go somewhere like Runners Need, or any serious runners shop and get your feet and the way you run- don't be embarrassed, they are professionals and they will feel nothing but admiration for you- checked, so they can fit you with the right running shoes. Get the best you can possibly afford. This-is-essential. Specially if you are overweight, running will destroy your knees and your hips if you are not wearing the correct shoes. It is very, very important that you take this serious.

Do not focus exclusively in running. Work on your core and flexibility. Planks and stretches. A simple yoga routine will help with that. Work also on a cross trainer. When the weather is specially bad, to have a cross trainer at home is a life saver. And do squats and lunges. Place your fingers on something to help with the balance at first. That will give you super strong knees and hips. Nutrition: more protein, less carbs, simple food, avoid processed food. Plenty of water. Rest. Essential. Your body needs that recovery time, Have at least 2 days a week in one go when you don't do a thing apart of some gentle whatever, like a stroll or gentle yoga if you feel like it. Music: good, inspirational music. At present, I am beyond music and I run better in silence, listening to my breathing. Personally, black coffee just before a run and some paracetamol at first helped a lot. You will be amazed by what a wonderful machine your body is. And listen to your body and your emotions. Make sure that anything you do is about celebrating and loving yourself, not punishing.