Start from beginning?

[Kezy80]

I completed the couch to 5k in August but with the mornings getting darker, I was too self conscious to go when people were around! I’m going to suck it up and try again in the evening, but do I start from beginning or couple weeks in?

[Lousylungs]

I graduated in September and have managed to keep going through the winter more or less but certainly not 3 times a week! Why don’t you see how you go doing week 9 just for the encouragement of listening to a trainer. Seems a bit extreme to go back to beginning. Just get back to it slowly and put on that invisibility cloak being a runner gives you and you are doing this for your health and fitness 🙂🏃‍♀️

[DiscoRunner Graduate]

I think you’re going to have to listen to your body. I’d suggest run slowly and start again. It seems like you had completed c25k, but not consolidated the running? The great thing about this programme, as you know, is that you can learn to run without injury. But if your general level of fitness is quite high, you could move on to W2 if w1r1 was a piece of cake for you. But what’s one more week to achieve a goal without injury?

And about the self conscious, I don’t think people are really looking. I must’ve looked a fright at the start of this journey! All sorts of ages and sizes run in my local park, and everyone is just focused on their run, or activity. And worrying about what others think could have a serious effect on your health - you’re not running when you could be! You could be an inspiration to others (if she can do it, why not me?). I’ve had women my age walking along, smiling and giving me a thumbs up - I’m a verrry sloooow runner!

Good luck & let us know how you’re getting on!

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Hi Kezy80, I have re- started more than once following illness or injury. Each time I have listened to what my body is telling me.

e.g. After 6 weeks off, I did one run from each week until I had found the right level for me & went on from there. After pneumonia I did the whole program again from scratch.

Listen to your own body. It will speak to you! 😀

[Kezy80 Graduate]

I did it! Week one in front of PEOPLE!!

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Woohoo! 👏👏👏😄

I fear the ‘PEOPLE’ didn’t notice - but we did & are cheering for you! 😃