W9R2 - Bittersweet

[PVH1]

So I've completed R2 and although I feel great, it's a bittersweet feeling knowing I have 1 run left before I graduate.

The last 9 weeks have just been amazing. Every run has surprised me, I've smiled, I've cried, I've cursed- lots of different emotions along the way. If I'm honest, I didnt think I would get to W5, I thought this a phase, the good intentions of getting healthy but not sticking to it. But every run has given me confidence that I can do this, it has tested my dedication and has instilled in me that when i put my mind to something, I can achieve it!

This running malarkey is now part of my weekly routine, it's always in the back of my mind to drink water in preparation of my run- I think I'm a runner!

To anyone starting out, you got this! You can do it even when those gremlins are saying stop. And even if you do stop during a run, that's ok, it's not a failure. The failure is not even trying. Repeat a week if you have to, it's at your pace. The idea of C25K is to run for 30mins , the distance will come after. You have all the time in the world to get to 5k but even if you dont, the fact that you're running is more important. Slow and steady (best advice I recieved). Above all, enjoy your running.

Will I try B210K? Probably, maybe who knows? But I will continue to run 3xweek. I have a parkrun in 4 weeks time with friends which I'm looking forward to as this will be the 1st time running with others.

So 1 more run on Thursday and my C25K journey will have finished however I will still be part of the forum. I have never come across such an amazing, supportive, funny bunch of "strangers" wanting me to do well. This is what social media should be, people wanting the best for others, not judging!

I thank you all...happy running x

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Well done you... and this really is just the beginning, if you are going to carry on with what C25K has started.

Just nine weeks, has seen your running strength and stamina start to build up... your running legs are newly forming and ready for further adventures

Lots of consolidation... after Graduation..new routes, short routes and those lovely long, slow runs that build everything up, leading to distance and maybe speed

You have so much to look forward to, here and on Bridge to10K maybe... there are many of us there, whom you will recognise

[BreakfastClub]

Wow well done you!! I’m just starting the process so you’re an inspiration 🙏👍🏃‍♀️

[PVH1 Graduate in reply to BreakfastClub]

Thank you and good luck, enjoy every step of the programme, you're gonna love it! What week are you 9n? Keep posting so I can see how your doing...happy running

[BreakfastClub in reply to PVH1]

Thanks

I just did run 1 wk 1 lol 😂 I’m literally at the beginning but I loved it

[Julia187 Graduate]

It’s a funny feeling isn’t it, I like the structure of the program and felt a bit lost when I finished it but 3 consolidation runs in now and the momentum to run is still there and I’m enjoying the improvements I’m seeing in each run. I think I floated round on W9R3 and I hope you enjoy it just as much 😊

[Debston Graduate]

Wow, well done! And what a lovely post, you're so right - the support on here is brilliant, glad you will be sticking around. You've made me realise that I need a plan for when I graduate - I'm on Week 7 now and it's starting to feel like I will actually make it to the end! I might just carry on using the app as I love listening to Michael telling me that I'm doing well!