Wk7: 1st Parkrun Completed. You can do it!

[Mikemuttiah]

Hi All,

New to this forum, but this was my 20th run on C25K. I decided I wanted to do a Parkrun after pushing myself on the 25m to do 5K in just under 30m.

FYI, last April, I couldn't run more than 1-2m at a time and was 12kg heavier than I am now!

I finished a really snowy, cold, slushy, muddy Parkrun without walking in 31:48, which was a great time considering the conditions and didn't work at all.

I'm going to keep up with the App, and finish up, but just wanted to say anyone can do it if I can do.

I am an ex smoker for 12 years, 32M, 5'9' and was 105kg at one point! Just follow the plan and a few tips I found helpful:

1. I found my optimum run time - For me it is around 1PM. Too early or too late and my legs give up. This was really useful for the longer 20m+ runs.

2. Pacing is so important. I completed a few longer runs with a SLOW Pace, like 7-8m per KM. Because I knew finishing was key.

3. Compression socks and recovery. The first month my legs were really sore and I got bad shin splints. I found compression socks worn after the run helped to reduce soreness as well as a nice hot bath.

4. Treats. I wasn't too fussed about weight loss while running, it will happen naturally. So every run day I would have a nice treat (food wise!) to keep me motivated

Just wanted to share my experience as I really enjoyed many comments here and will check in with my 5K times as they improve!

[Lousylungs]

Really good advice and you have encouraged me to do a park run if I can get up early enough on a Saturday. I graduated last Sept but have only in the last few weeks managed 5k although I take much longer than you. Time will improve my speed but so chuffed to have actually done it as like you I could hardly run for 30 seconds when I started last April.

Such a brilliant programme as here we are now classed as runners 🙌

[Mikemuttiah Graduate in reply to Lousylungs]

You can definitely do it. The community and support is lovely. And I think it's a great way to get motivates by seeing everyone else there. There will be plenty of people faster and slower than you. For example last finished was over an hour as they walked. Can't recommend it highly enough. Good luck !