Introduction - C25k: finding it hard!

[CycloPops]

Hi there, I'm 57 (BMI 26.1) and just completed the second week of my C25k challenge. My aim is to get to the stage where I can take part in the local parkrun and do the whole 5k without stopping.

I tried C25k about 10 years ago and got to the stage when I could run around 1 mile without stopping, then gave up after doing the Sport Relief mile. Since then, I took up cycling, but being a regular cyclist now hasn't been much help with my current attempt at C25k - it still is tough going. I'm close to the end of my tether by the time 90 seconds comes around, particularly when going uphill. No gain without pain, I suppose.

My wife started with me, but had to pull out after week 1 with sore knees. Hopefully my joints hold out to the end, but so far I'm enjoying the challenge!

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Great for getting started, try and slow down as much as possible. Also is it possible for now to find a flatter route as at this stage the hills take a lot of effort which maybe pushing you too hard. Good luck 😊

[Scruff55 Graduate]

Keep going it really is worth it. Try to run on the flat at first then add the hills when you graduate would be my advice and keep it slow and steady good luck

[Kevtrev]

Hi there and welcome to this forum well done on trying it I have done C25K and completed it I won’t lie it is hard but the gain you get out of it is fantastic I run parkrun I’ve done my 3rd one today and I’ve ran race for life 5k and now I’m training for a 10K so if an overweight me could do it so can you since doing this program I’ve lost over 2 stone but I must admit I go to the gym 3 times a week and I run 2 times a week and I do the Akins diet and now I’m just over 12 stone and not only that my mental health running helps me so so much I don’t think about nothing apart from getting to the finish line 🏁 lol 😂 and you have got this you can do it you just need a goal to do it and you fitness will improve and endurance will too so get yourself down to runners need and have a gait analysis to see if you have the correct trainers while running as some people need a supportive trainer or neutral trainer as having the wrong trainers can cause injury down the line and you really don’t want that if you have already done that great if not I would seriously consider it as I know proper trainers are expensive but so is a physiotherapist 😉🏃🏻‍♂️just some friendly advice and also make sure you stretch before and after running and hydrate before during and after it all helps and enjoy your journey to running and hopefully you will be committed this time happy running 🏃🏻‍♂️😉🙏👍😉😀

[Archieandme Graduate]

Hi...I’m 58 BMI 25.7. I’ve just done my first park run this morning and can’t believe I did it!!! I started C25K late Feb so it’s taken me a while, but stick with the plan and you’ll get there. Good luck!

[CycloPops]

Thanks for the encouraging replies! Well done Archieandme on your first park run. I'm planning to take my time over it, like you did. Hopefully will get there in the autumn.

Lots of useful info there Kevtrev, thanks. I'm not sure about investing in gait analysis and running shoes yet, but if I get hooked then it will become a money pit, just like cycling. lol

Finding a flat place to run would be ideal, but I like the idea that I can just step out the front door and go. I think I need to learn to run slower or even just walk the steeper bits.

OK, bring on week 3!!!

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Welcome and very well done!😃

Cycling and running are a great combination. It sounds like you need to relax your running and slow right down. Think “potter along gently “that might help. 😄

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Check out this important post for Newbies out...it has loads of great advice...

Slow and steady s the mantra and on some of your rest days non impact exercises is so useful... especially as the runs get longer..cycling, walking, Yoga, Pilates, climbing, swimming etc and your strength and stamina work should be upped as you move on...

Try not to focus on 5K too much .. although Park run is a good goal if you fancy it... Just take it gently, enjoy each run and get to that 30 Minutes having had fun and injury free.

[CycloPops]

Just a wee update... I found a lower gear! Had a look on YouTube for slow jogging and went with more of a shuffle along vibe. Still faster than walking but slower than before. I was worried that week 3 with 3 minutes of running would not be possible without hitting my max heart rate, but it went really well. Feeling really positive now!☺