As a 50-year old diabetic, running wasn't even on my radar when I woke up this morning. But something on TV this morning mentioned Couch to 5K. I'd heard of it before but never considered it was something I could do - being too worried that my knees and ankles wouldn't hold me up! But I downloaded the app and set off. Hubby was really surprised to see my sudden motivation to get my trainers on. Sarah Millcan spurred me on and even told me I did a great job LOL! Hubby asked if I actually did any running and was suitably impressed when I said that I had. Next run will be on Monday - I've got to do this for myself and my health, and I look forward to hearing about others running for health issues through this forum and how it is helping you.
I'd never have believed it...: As a 50-year old... - Couch to 5K
I'd never have believed it...
Congratulations on starting c25k
I'm sure one of the lovely admin team will link you through to the info about doing the program. It's jam full of useful stuff 
The very best of luck. Keep us posted on your progress 👍
Thank you, Jogunlikely! I've just been reading the program info. All sounds great and I hope I am one of those that can stick to it and reap the rewards! How long have you been running?
This is my second stab at c25k. I got to week 7 last Oct then stopped for various reasons but started again at the beginning of March. I'm now about to start wk8. I was shocked that wk1 was just as bad as the first time but I have enjoyed it more this time. Probably because I know I can do it if I put my mind to it!
I'm guessing you are on run 2 today so have fun 👍👍👍
Welcome and very well done starting this... that’s the hardest step.
I was bending over picking up laundry one day and within a couple of minutes I was sweating and out of breath, something needed to change. A year later, yes I know, I started to run... it didn’t go well. Then I was pointed to C25K a few weeks later and I never looked back. Not long after graduation I deliberately ran slowly for 30 minutes... never lost my breath... I didn’t sweat... and when it was done I felt like I could just hit start again. It took me 30 years to maximise unfitness, and about 12 weeks to undo all that harm.
Enjoy your journey... you can do this.
Wow! Well done you! Your story is an inspiration.... I can't imagine running for 3 minutes, let alone 30 right now, but I am looking forward to trying. After my first run yesterday, my front thigh muscles are certainly letting me know that I'd made them work! It's amazing that 12 weeks has undone 30 years of harm - hope it works that quickly for me too! I need to get rid of my tummy for sure!
Welcome and,all the best of luck on your journey. I have just graduated...nine weeks time that will be you and healthier and fitter in the process.
Thank you Franglaise! Congratulations on graduating - I hope to join you as a graduate in a few months.
Hi Kastri - well done for getting started on a wonderful programme!🙂 You will hear many inspiring stories here I promise! Mine is simple - returned to running at 49 and three and a half years post graduation (apart from the odd injury/illness😮), I am still running!😀🏃🏽♀️ The physical health benefits are many but helping me manage stress and anxiety has been the biggest reward for me personally. I now enjoy running many distances and ran my first Half Marathon in 2017. So beware, we all started with the 1 minute walk/1 minute run but it's funny where this journey can take you! You asked about running with health conditions - I have an underactive thyroid and it has not stopped me progressing with my running and in fact I think it gives me even more motivation to look after my general health. I know others have posted very positive comments on here about the impact of running on their diabetes, so I do hope you find the same. Good luck with your next run!😀👍🏃🏽♀️
Thank you for your response, Sandraj39; what an achievement you have made! Congratulations and I am inspired! I had some stress a couple of years ago and the Dr advised half an hour's walk every day. I did it for a while, and I did feel better, but soon lapsed. I'm not very self-disciplined and can always find an excuse not to do something. But I hope I can keep this up - as you say, we have to look after our general health and wellbeing. And having a forum to share support is great! I will look for posts from others with diabetes. Thanks for sharing!
Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.
This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...
Enjoy your journey.
Brilliant - thanks for this, it's really helpful and I shall be paying attention to all the advice as I don't want to be someone who gives up on this.
Welcome along ! You can do this. Just take it slow and steady x
Thanks for the encouragement and advice, ButtercupKid! I think you're right that slow and steady is the key. I'll do my best!
We’re all on your side here ! All the best with it x
Well done on starting C25K! Good luck on your journey. I’m just starting week 3 and it’s going great so far 😃
Welcome to the forum and C25K Kastri, I wish you good luck and I hope you enjoy your running journey, remember you can repeat any runs or week's if you wish to, take your time with all the runs.
Well done Kastri, you’ve made a brilliant decision. I was on blood pressure tablets over 8 years before I started c25k and was off them 7 months later. Maybe your husband will be so impressed, he’ll join in too.
Fantastic! Well done you! That must have been a great moment when you told the Doctor about your running resulting in your lowered blood pressure. My hubby used to be a long distance runner and mountain climber, so I'm expecting him to encourage me a bit more. Are you still running 3 times a week?
Yes I am, to my surprise! It’s a 4K, a 5k and a long one (10k this week).
Hi
I’m a 60 year old Diabetic and just done run 1 of week 4. You have made the biggest decision which is to start running. I have very dodgy knees too and their is a download somewhere which describes a running style for people with dodgy knees. So go steady and slow and good luck on your new journey
Hi Bluemoon 1958 - that's really encouraging to hear! Well done you on reaching week 4 - you must feel great about that. Yes, slow and steady is the key, I think. I will search for the download on running style for dodgy knees!
Well done for getting started. I've just completed w3 r2 and I can't believe how far I've come already. My running may not be fast or pretty but the feeling of achievement at the end of each session is fantastic, even if it's been really hard work! Keep going.
Thanks, Scram. I'm in admiration of you in getting to week 3 - can't imagine running more than 1 minute right now, but I am hopeful that I can build up my stamina to complete this program. I'm not a pretty sight either - huffing and puffing, but you've got to start somewhere LOL!
Congratulations in starting! I'm only a few runs ahead of you and the best advice people on this forum have given me are follow the advised stretches, watch the japanese slow running video, slow down and then slow down some more!
Good luck for your next run!
Hi TFG89 - Congratulations to you, too! I haven't heard of the japanese slow running video, so I shall look for that. Yes, I think I ran a bit too fast yesterday - my front thigh muscles are complaining today - so will try to go as slow as I can. Are you managing to maintain your enthusiasm?
I was a lot more sore after my first than my second and found myself recovering a lot faster. I’ve got my third one this evening after walking 4KM this morning for St. George’s day parade oops!
I’m bizarrely into it, I don’t run ever ever ever. Literally if my house was on fire I’d power walk out not run lol but yeah I’m finding myself slightly addicted
Brilliant! Thanks for this video - that's really interesting and helpful. I will definitely bear this in mind when I "run" tomorrow. Thanks for sharing this.
Welcome to C25K Kastri. Well done on your decision. You won’t regret it, but be warned, it is addictive! You’ve received lots of great advice from everyone already. Follow the program and you can’t go wrong!
Good luck 😉
Thank you for your good wishes, Delly-dot! Looking forward to my second run tomorrow....
I'm a 62 yr old diabetic. Started the C25K last year - for a bet, and to raise money for charity. Still running (funeral pace). And I enjoy seeing the finish line 🤣.
Next weekend, (for another bet), I run a leg of the Belfast Marathon to raise money for a childrens play park. The leg I've to run is 5 miles (a distance I've never run). Blood sugars will be all over the place, and stomach will be in knots.
Stick at it Kastri...you never know where it will take you. But itll be good and you will meet loads of new friends. Well done for starting!
Thank you for the encouragement, Teresa162 - what an inspiration you are! Wishing you well for the run next weekend - let me know how you get on! Go forit!
Well done you for starting, you are one step nearer to being fitter, I am not much ahead of you run2week3, it’s hard but starting to get a buzz completing each run, yes is hard but we are over half a century old😂 🐢
Ha ha! Yes, over the hill! But looking forward to maybe RUNNING over the hill one day! Well done to you too - all the runners I see seem to be youngsters, so I feel a bit of an oap, but hey, if it gets my fitness levels higher, I don't mind. Good for you getting to week 3, that's brilliant
come on we will show them we can do this - I am using a treadmill inside at the minute till I feel confident enough to run outside without falling over or gasping so hard bystanders call for an ambulance - I am unfit 58 and only exercise has been walking the dogs, thyroid problems and hypertensive so need to get fitter to improve my longevity, I want to see my grandchildren grow up
What great idea! Hear about C25K and just go do it straight away! Brilliant.
Welcome to the Runners. You already won the hardest race.
👏👏👏👏
So well put!
Thank you - I don't know what came over me, but I'm glad I started without procrastinating about it. And people on this forum have been so encouraging! It's great to be part of something fun and healthy.
I had gestational diabetes with my 3 kids, the youngest is now 11. The doctor checks my levels once a year and last year I was back to borderline again that I hadn't been since daughter was born. Doc said I'd got to make some changes quickly, took up c25k and kept a bit closer eye on my eating habits. Last month doc said she was amazed at the results and to keep on doing what I was doing. Good luck with your running, it's an amazing feeling finishing each week.
Well done you, it's encouraging that C25K can help with my diabetes. I even said "No thanks" to a dessert tonight - I think I'm getting into the right head space at last! 2nd run tomorrow - looking forward to it. It will be interesting to see if my thighs complain less than they do today
Hi totally with you on this. I was told 3 months ago I was pre diabetic but could reverse this is I addressed my weight and lifestyle. I signed up to C25K and I can honestly say it has changed my life. I have had a lovely drop in my BP and my weight loss currently stands at 1 stone 8lbs. I am hoping that in a couple of months time that my bloods will show a drop in my risk score too. Keep going I have just graduated last week and if anyone told me 10 weeks ago that this morning I would be running for 45mins I would have burst into hysterics. You are amazing for starting this and you will feel even more amazing when like me in 9 weeks time you complete it my running buddyx
Thank you for your encouragement, nif100, and for sharing your story. Many congratulations on graduating - you must feel fantastic!! I hope to get there too. My GP will be really pleased if I can get my Hb1Ac down.
Congratulations Kastri on taking that first step doing your first run.Honestly you won’t look back.I’ve just finished week six today and loving every minute of it.Never in my wildest dreams would I ever have imagined I could run for 25 minutes (not going to lie it was tough but loved it)I really look forward to my next run.Re health benefits......I cannot believe how much more energy I have!I feel totally invigorated after each run.It also clears my head & lifts my mood so much...My husband says I’m like a new woman lol(24 years married)....I do hope it helps you in such a way it has helped me and many others.Keep going your doing fantastic!
Thanks for your encouragement, Bentley3 and congratulations on getting to week 6. I'm with you - can't imagine for a minute that I will be able to run for 25 minutes, but am looking forward to proving myself wrong! It must be an amazing feeling. And for your husband to be so pleased too - it has changed your life in many ways, it's very inspirational
Well done! You sound just like me the morning I hopped out of bed and DID IT!... they couldn't believe I carried on... spurred on by my bi 5-0 Looming up!
Have just completed a couple of consolidation runs since "Graduation"... and hope to start 'enjoying' the good habit very soon!
So, if I can do it, so can you... go SLOW learn to breathe and follow the plan... you'll be so pleased with the results.
All the best
PB
Thank you for the encouragement PB - glad I'm not the only crazy impulsive person out there! I'm normally impulsive to open the chocolate box, but this is taking me on a different and more healthy route. I've just seen the slow japanese running video which will help me on my 2nd run tomorrow. Well done on how far you have got!
Like you, I suddenly went for it. I am 61 , with a dodgy knee and a fused ankle and have believed for the last 40 years that I can't run. I now regularly do 5 km and love it. I don't beat myself up about it- some weeks I do 3 runs, some weks I don't but the Podcasts with Laura's encouraging voice helped me through. Keep going!
Well done on completing first run & going out for a second! Happy running.
Hi Kastri, I also run listening to Sarah Millican, she has such a gentle voice. This running program is amazing and the people on here are so loving and helpful. Enjoy the program, Angus
Thanks for the encouragement, Angus, I can't believe how many people have responded to my post and offered such kind words and support. This community is fabulous!
As A 55 year old diabetic in much the same boat this is great to hear. I have just downloaded the app,with Sarah Milligan and am looking forward to starting but terrified I will find an excuse to not GO
I identify with you! But unusually, I didn't give myself time to procrastinate or think about it, I just downloaded it and went. Do the same - self-discipline is not my middle name either, but people on this forum have been so kind, supportive and helpful. Go for it and let me know how you get on
Will do first run die for tomorrow night
no excuse put on them shoes and go. I am 65 pre diabetic and did it from scratch be warned this running is addictive
Just making that first step outside to run/jog is fantastic! When I started last year I really struggled to run for even 90 seconds but I can now jog for 30 minutes (even after having a break over the winter). Definitely the best thing I did & already helping my high blood pressure & general fitness. So all the best - you won't regret it!!👍🥇
Thank you! Running for 60 seconds is hard enough right now, not looking forward to the 90 second runs next week,but like you say, if I stick at it, I can be running like you before too long. Thanks for encouragement me. :P)
Wow!!! Congratulations on your first run. And the fact that you downloaded it then ran!!!!!Brilliant.
It took me 3 months of procrastination from the download to get outdoors 😀
I really hope you enjoy the program and the Japanese slow running video off TFG89 is the best advice ever. Honestly.
We’re all cheering you on and eventually you’ll be on that podium with the biggest smile ever 😀 to be honest, each run you complete will be the biggest smile ever too!!!😀
Good luck tomorrow 🏃🏻♀️
Good on you! I've just completed week 5 having not run since school (and I'm 42 now). Couldn't run for 30 seconds before starting this program but yesterday I ran (slowly) for 20 minutes. Stick with it, stretch properly, keep hydrated, make sure you take your rest days and go for it. If I can do it, anyone can x
Week 5 - wow! Congratulations on doing 20 minutes - that is mindblowing to me right now, and I'm envious! With advice and support from the lovely people on this forum, I am hopeful that I, too, one day, will be able to achieve what you have!
You will! Stick to the plan, don't look ahead at what's in the runs to come (as I did and was terrified!). Take it one step at a time (pardon the pun), the plan works. Think positive, you can do it, you will do it, you will love it x
Wow, I'm impressed! Well done from someone who hasn't plucked up the courage yet! 😁
LOL! Ah well, maybe I was supposed to be a nudge and an encouragement to you! Download it and get going - people on this forum are so kind and supportive, I'm so glad I found it! Join us!
Hi Kastri, hopefully this post will give you some encouragement?
healthunlocked.com/couchto5...
5 months on, I continue to run 3 times a week and should have my diabetes assessment next month - hopefully continued good news 😀
All the best for your c25k journey! 👍
Thanks for the link to your post, Jonathan - you have done so well to get your levels down. I'm hoping that C25K will help me in the same way. I'm not terribly overweight, my daily sugar levels are ok but my HbA1c is ridiculously high, which confuses my medical team. If I can lose the extra pounds it can only help. I used to do 6 exercises classes a week, variety of aerobic and pilates; the weight came off but the HbA1c stayed high. Whatever happens, I'm hopefully doing the right thing for my mental and physical health. And I want to get to the point where I really enjoy it. Wishing you well for your assessment next month - I'm sure they will be impressed with you!
Same for me except spurred on by Michael !
Decided on treadmill too embarrassed to run outside!
Congratulations on starting the C25K, whilst I don't have physical health problems beyond being overweight, I was struggling with stress and running helped in ways I could not have imagined. I graduated in Nov 18, and whilst I still can't complete 5k in 30 mins, I am improving, I regularly attend my local parkrun and am now doing an improver course with my local running club. We are aiming to get our running time up to 90 mins, in 10 weeks. Back in September I could'nt run for 3 mins. Now are I feel fitter, more confident and relaxed. Ironically I have not lost any weight. I have, however, gained a huge number of new friends. C25K has improved my life in many unexpected ways. Don't let other people or your own doubts talk you out of keeping going, the rewards are worth it. Good luck.
Thank you for the encouragement, Larrykat. What a goal - 90 minutes of running in 10 weeks, that's mindblowing. I think I'll still be at 9 minutes of running in 10 weeks LOL! Well done to you for achieving all of this and for sharing your story. It's so encouraging and helps me believe that yes, I CAN do this!
Well done in starting! Always remember that the hardest step is the first one - and you've taken that now so....keep going and believe in yourself and the programme. If I can do it, anyone can!
Thank you Runstarter, that's very kind of you. I'm so surprised at how many people have said "if I can do it, anyone can" - yet that's just what I hope I will be able to say in a few weeks time. I guess we can all have an element of self doubt and low self belief - and it seems that C25K can help with that as well as physical fitness. It's a win all round!
Congratulations on taking the first steps (literally!). I have just celebrated my first “runniversary” and did my first 10k race earlier this month. I didn’t have any medical conditions, just unfit and overweight when I started but, as you will have seen from so many others, the programme is brilliant and don’t be surprised if you find yourself looking forward to going running very soon. Good luck for your journey 🏃♀️🏃♀️
Conratulations on your Runniversary - I love that term! 10K? That's amazing - I'd like to think I could say that in a years time!
If I can I’m sure you can 😃😃
It's funny what makes you start, but the important thing is that you have started🤗🤗 I too listened to Sarah, there is something about her that makes you feel like it's a more realistic achievement. Good luck, follow the plan and don't worry if it does not always go to plan. Remember any attempt is better than not trying. 🤞🤞👍👍
Thanks for your encouragement. Yes, doing something is better than doing nothing, and I'm inspired by how many ordinary people are doing this.
I too started the programme in January after being diagnosed with Type 2 last September I lost 2st in weight after joining Slimming World in September than embarked on the C25K programme. Have graduated my daughter was also inspired by me to sign up and she too has graduated Yesterday I completed my 2nd Park Run knocking 2mins off my time from the previous week. Ohhh and I’m in remission from my Type 2 now. The programme works so now u’ve got out there keep going.
Thanks for your encouragement, Chris141, and well done on knocking diabetes out of the park! That's quite some achievement, you must be very proud of yourself for many reasons. You must be thrilled with yesterdays park run! I've been diabetic for 17 years now, don't think I'll ever get rid of it, but if I can bring my Hb1Ac down I (and my GP!) will be pleased!
You have done the hardest part - you've started! You will be amazed at how quickly you progress too! Just relax into it. It isn't a race - it's a journey. Good luck and well done!
Well done on starting C25K.....it is said the most difficult step is putting your running shoes on and leaving the house......you have overcome that and the rest is to look forward to....👍👍👍👍
I was motivated by seeing people older/younger than me tackling local runs and thought ‘I should be doing that...bet I could....🤔🤔🤔’....so when I heard of C25K I downloaded the app and ...well... had a go..
Three months later I can run 5K in <30 mins, be able to converse without gasping at the end of a 5K parkrun, lost 2 stone, feel better.....but most of all now feel a sense of achievement......and at 60+ years old, the feeling is most enjoyable...😁😁😁😁
Wow - that's fabulous! What an amazing achievement - you must be so proud! To run 5k in under 30 minutes is something I can't imagine right now, but I'll work towards it. Well done on what you have accomplished
wow well done you - I am 58 and just finishing week 3 managing but its hard , hearing everyone elses success stories is encouraging
Well done. I graduated C25k last June. I ran three times a week, until I got injured. Back on it now. I’m not fast, and don’t do long distances. But I love it. You’ll find your happy place when you graduate. Keep going. 🏃♀️🏃♀️
I had similar reservations being asthmatic and getting more joint pain in my knees and hips, I really thought I shouldn’t run. But after hearing an article about arthritis which suggested running is good for knees, I began this in Jan and completed 5k last week. My knees have never been better! Even went skiing without knee straps for the first time in 5 years.
Keep it up this is such a good thing to do😀.
Hi! It was very brave of you to give C25K a go with asthma and joint pain, you must have worried if it would make it worse. So glad to hear that the opposite is true! You are an inspiration and I will keep at it too!
Congratulations you will love it. I started it just before I turned 50 last year and still running 🏃♀️ x
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