Have done a little running in the past, is it madness to start this now @64 ?
Am I mad ?: Have done a little running in the... - Couch to 5K
Am I mad ?
Written by
Hoollio
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167 Replies
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You are never to old to start running! 😁
Buddy34Graduate
No definitely not. There are people of all ages on here. C25k is an amazing plan and really does work you'll get lots of encouragement and support on here good luck 😊
MummyTumGraduate
Completely the opposite of madness!
Welcome to the forum - it’s lovely to have you here 😊😊
You’ll find loads of support and encouragement amongst these fine fellow runners. You can do this 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
WenderwooGraduate
I’m about to start and I’m 59 and never run before in my life! You won’t know unless you try, so let’s both get on it 😁
AlMorrAmbassadorGraduate
No, you are not mad, if you are mad, so am I and the many +60 year old men and women who have started running with C25K. None of us are mad.
I totally agree with you, AlMorr! If it is madness, then it’s a wonderful craziness which we are all in together. One of my best decisions was to start Ouch to 5k last year at 63, which became10k, then 12.5 k and who knows what is on the horizon? Main thing is to get out there, and 60 ish+ is a pretty good time to start something adventurous and fun, I think!
(By the way, thanks for all your encouragement and inspiration, AM!)
O, thats new to me "OUCH 25K." lol, I know what you mean, C25K, I am sure you have put a smile on everyone's face here on Couch to five K😊😀
steviej99Graduate
I started on my 62nd birthday last September, graduated in December and one year later running 5k in 32.5 minutes. I've loved every minute and I'm now fitter and slimmer than for many years. So yes get out there and get started,you'll love it
IannodaTruffeMentor
Welcome to the forum.
If you read this guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... you will find mention of an 83 year old graduate...............your age is just the number of times you have been around the sun............it is not a limiting factor.
You will find you are junior to many here.
Enjoy your journey.
Thank you for your support 💜x
BaddieThePirateGraduate
My thoughts are starting running later in life means we don’t have time to wear our knees out 😀 Give it a go
I wish that was the case!!!
Hi Hoollio
I completed C25k a couple of months ago and I am 64. Best thing I could have done - I have also lost some weight but more importantly, I feel so much better by doing it. Now onto doing 10K
which will be as far as I wish to go? You will be surprised at what you can achieve - I would just say take it slow and if struggling slow it down some more.
Enjoy and keep it going with help from the forum. 🏃♀️👍👏
SkegGraduate
Never too aged. I started June this year at 73. Completed C25K and now reached 10K. Go for it
NorthpenninesjoggerGraduate
I am 64 and have just completed week 1. Feeling good
Great keep up the good work. Just the inspiration I need, thank you x
Phonic01Graduate
I started several months ago guess what I am 64 but I like to be a little mad and I can't remember ever feeling better. It's the running you know. Go for it!
hamitGraduate
Well I started at 72. Go for it. Follow the program and you will do it. Slow and steady is the key, Never give up never surrender!
BigfeetGraduate
I had run for 4+ decades until various joints became painful so I stopped, about 3 years ago. But I used C25K to ease myself back into it, and now I can live with the pain. I’m 64. I’m now running 3 times a week, twice at 35 mins and once at 45. And I feel so much younger again! No, of course you’re not mad. Just make sure you have really good shoes!
No,it is inspiring! I started from nothing twelve months ago. I have never done anything in my life before. I now love running have lost over four stone and today am doing a Half Matathon. This week I am 60. Living life to the full. You go for it and don’t let anything or anyone stop you. Keep telling yourself you are nothing less than 😎 awesome!!!!
Most definitely not. You’re never too old.
The C25K plan is excellent for setting you up as a new/beginner runner.
Good luck.
Thank you, it seems to help a lot of people x
Just give it a try. You won’t know until you do and just take it slowly. That’s the key to being a new runner. Don’t be tempted into thinking you have to run fast.....you don’t. It will come in time.
I’d never done any running up until 6 months ago at the age of 56. Now I run 3x weekly and miss it if I don’t.
RunawaytrainerGraduate
I started a year ago at 63. I read up about Japanese slow jogging and I find that works for me. I've had ME and still lose energy for weeks after a virus, so I'm on/off with running. Much better when you can get a routine! If you join a Parkrun, the age adjusted results are amazingly kind to women in our age bracket! No need to fret about 5k in 30 minutes. I seem to come in with a good score when some of the front runners have finished and left the park!!
Wow so inspired to hear your story 💜 keep up the good work and I will think of you when I just want to watch TV instead of running.
Thank you x
cadoganmGraduate
No definitely not, I am 64 and completed earlier this year, cant say I enjoy running ,but felt much better after doing the course, lost some weight, toned up and felt a lot better. Just go slowly , your stamina soon builds up don’t think you have failed if you have to repeat a week just go at your pace, this site is brilliant you will get lots of encouragement. Good luck( the hardest part is starting, get your earphones in some good music and go x)
Awe thank you, I will think of you when I'm feeling lazy, I have no excuses. Well done to you, you are very inspirational.
I did run a 5k a few years ago with no training, found it very difficult..of course. Ran it in about 50 mins, but everyone was very supportive.🙂
Astra5Graduate
I am a mere youngster at 61 and started February this year. I had exactly the same thoughts having hated running when younger. C25K and this forum is the best encouragement ever. Read the tips section as advised earlier by IannodaTruff and you will be fine. Things that stand out to me are:
* run slowly then slower still
* make sure you drink lots of water the day before (I now drink all days)
* yes running shoes definitely help so once you are sure you are going to stick this out go and get your gait checked and get some appropriate shoes. Start saving now 😳 but you will be glad you did.
* don’t be frightened to walk if you have to later in the plan when you get too tired but really try and stick to the run plan. If you are not happy with any run redo it, I did several times and progressed better because of it.
* there is no time limit so enjoy your journey.
All the best 😎😁
Thank you so much, the tips and advice are gratefully received.
There seems to be so much support on here, I am already feeling, part of the 'running ' family.
I have an old pair of trainers, which I will start with , but will save up for better shoes for sure 💜
Must admit this is the best forum I have come across for advice and encouragement without the usual trolls. Regarding running shoes have a look for a good running shop in your area. The good ones offer a “free” gait analysis but check 1st. They are also give great advice.
OldflossAdministratorGraduate
No.. perfectly and wonderfully sane... I started this at 65.. did my first HM this year at 69.... We seasoned runners totally rock!
Well done you.. read the advice in the links and slow and steady as you go 
GoGo_JoJoGraduate
Far from it! It might be the best decision you've made in a while. Just keep it steady and you'll find there are so many benefits! 👍🏻😁
Hi there. You are not mad at all. I used to run 10 years ago. Now at 64 I decided to go back running. I am on W4. Enjoy!
I've just started at age 70, haven't run for 50 years
Not mad at all! You’re about to learn so much about yourself, things that the first 64 years didn’t teach you 🙏🏻 Enjoy every moment!
Hoollio• in reply to
I like the philosophy behind your comment, thank you x
Wow so true !
No, you’re a Spring chicken! I’m 76 and just joined C25K. Enjoy.
nif100Graduate
Hi I started earlier this year at 65. If there is one thing I would like to say is listen to your body and ALWAYS do the warm up and warm down 5 mins either end of each session. Apart from that take your time, don't worry about actually thinking about how far/how fast. Just run at your pace even like mine (snail) it is still running. and enjoy. If you have to repeat a week it is not the end of the world take care new running friendxx
OldgirlrunsGraduate
I started at 66 having never run in my life; I won’t say it was all plain sailing but I loved it!
Everyone seems to enjoy it, but I guess if you didn't you wouldn't do it , so I hope I do 😁thank you x
Too true - I’m sure there are loads who started who decided it wasn’t for them and that’s fine. But you know what? The whole plan seems to be completely barking but it really does work and the best part is you’re not on your own. As you can tell by the responses to your first post- people on this forum are brilliant, wonderful and kind. If you have a question, ask - there’s no question too silly and someone will almost certainly have had the same issue previously. Get those shoes on and get out there, you really won’t regret it!
Well I've actually done it ! Well sort of, I put on my trainers etc and my raincoat as it's windy and rainy here, but was encouraged by everyone's advice and support. Trouble is my coat was a tad tight ( yes put on weight ) but zipped it up and off I went. I did feel like a squashed sausage, and I didn't get too far, but at least I made a start and will go out again tomorrow in a different jacket he he 🏃
Take tomorrow as a rest day and go Tuesday, you need your rest day, go for a walk if you feel you want to but don’t run on a rest day
Drink loads of glasses of water for the rest of today and every day
I’ve never seen a forum with no negativity at all until i found this one
DeterminedSilverGraduate
Noooo definitely not ! You have the will . The plan is brilliant and loads of wonderful support and advice on here.
I am 70 with health issues but have gone from hardly being able to walk any distance (health not weight) to Wk8R2 !!
You can do it - keep posting to all these great people and they will get you through
💪👍
Really ? Gosh I thought I'd be the only one thinking I was too old, but age doesn't seem to be an issue at all. Thank you so much x
YoucanrunGraduate
Hi, I’d say you’ve made a good decision. 6 months ago just before my 74 birthday I started C25k as a personal challenge. So chuffed I have achieved that plus 11 Parkruns varying speeds of 32-35 mins. I feel stronger, fitter and my weight is nicely controlled. I plan to continue, hope you do too. Happy running.
Brilliant ! We always need heroes and inspiring role models to follow .
Gives me even more determination!
In the immortal words of Susan Jeffers ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’. Just take baby steps initially to avoid injury. Good luck and tally ho!!!!!
Thank you 👍
SueAppleRunGraduate
We thought we were mad back in April when we started then had to take a month off in May to June and missed it so much, re started in June. There are weeks we need to take a few extra rest days and weeks we wonder if running is for us but here we are in October and continuing to get fitter and stronger. Our blood pressure is down our cholesterol is down and I lost 3 inches off my waist even though not overweight to start with and only lost a very few pounds. We are both 63 and hope to be able to run for many more years even though I wince when I see speeds as ours is a gentle snail 🐌 pace but we are happy with that and ran our first full 5k in September
Enjoy your journey
Thank you for your lovely story, although I don't have any sever health issues I am overweight,so this can only help 💜
None of our health issues were a problem just so surprised at everything going down , especially my waist as i wasn’t looking for that to happen
Oh and we’ve just got back from 30 minutes running and feel so happy so have fun
I can't wait to get going, going to try today to do my first try 💜
Take it slow and remember to let us know how you got on
I started at 63 so no it’s never too late.... I go a slow and steady pace. I just ignore others who run pass me. I run in a country park so look at nature and the changing seasons when running, I find this helps. I completed week 9 last week, so am feeling rather good about myself.
Hope this helps do it for the oldies who are young at heart. 🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️🏃♀️
Silverfox1943Graduate
Hello Hoolio,
You wont know until you start. Age is no barrier just a number.
I was 76 last year and last ran seriously at school but have been quite active since.
I completed C25k last Nov and yesterday did my 7th Park Run in 32 mins so am getting faster.
Its great to do a run, have a shower then feel that glow you get afterwards.
Just get started running before you ARE TOO OLD.
Ha ha like your sentiment thank you 💜
Bluepup1Graduate
No way! No one is too old to start anything if you want to 🤗 x
I started at age 66 having never run. Follow the coach'sinstructions and you'll be fine.
Good luck and happy jogging!
Thank you 💜
lexiemcdGraduate
No you're not too "old" to start the C25K !! Like a number of the other posts have stated there are so many of us in the 60 plus group. I'll be 70 in December - graduated last summer and enjoy my three runs a week. I'm not out to break any records - the journey is mine alone - some runners are fast, some slow, some can run for 10k, some for 3k , some competitive , some like myself not - it's your journey give it a go and enjoy what you achieve.
Never to old, I’m 59, been running on/off (due to injuries) about a year, have since done a Tough Mudder and a weekend trail running through Snowdonia National Park, things I never thought I would ever do. Take your time, if you are struggling slow it down, enjoy xx
AnnieappleAdministratorGraduate
👋Welcome Hoollio! There are many of us in the over 60’s bracket having the time of our lives! 🎈Come and join us! Put those trainers on! 🦋
Yes now I know I am not alone I will have a go thank you 💜
Hi there
I aim to start mine next week after I’ve returned from holiday. Feeling very nervous but I am determined to give this a try. I’ll keep posting on here to share our progress!!! Think how proud, healthy and happy we’ll be by Christmas!!
Yes this is true, I need something to be proud of, thank you and enjoy the rest of your holiday. Keep us updated on your progress and I will do the same 💜
👏😀 you will gets lots of help & encouragement here! Enjoy!!
Thank you 👍
Thanks so much! This looks like a great support forum. Starting on the 19th after a holiday and a funeral. Will be a very healthy antidote against the loss of my sister in law 😢
Oh how sad Suzie. Sorry to hear that. Yes running can bring consolation to a grieving heart. You have time to think & work through the pain. Hope you have a good holiday! We will be here waiting for you when you are ready to start!
Ray111Graduate
I started C25K last year at the age of 64, having never been a runner. I surprised myself by completing the nine weeks without too much trouble and have now completed 30 Parkruns, averaging about 35 mins. I would never have believed it possible, but now I am really pleased to have made the effort. Give it a go - best of luck.
Newbeg60Graduate
Definitely not! I have just completed Couch to 5k. I'm 60, have never run in my life or done any sport, always hated it & I managed to complete Couch to 5k. Took me a while, lots of repeating weeks but its a great programme & I would really recommend it. You'll feel amazing as you steadily progress through it. Best of luck!
Was recently stunned when a 78 years old man finished the race ahead of me
Wow that's so amazing 💜
I ran in my 40's from 0-marathon over 6 years but then got some minor injuries, raynauds made cold weather harder and I eventually stopped. At 60, I'm starting again. I'm heavier and it's hard but I always loved being outdoors and have just 3 miles as a goal now. I supplement with streaming/dvds to keep up cardio but have gotten to week 6. From this point, I'm not progressing quite as well so I'm doing what I did years ago. I just use a map your run app and run as much as I can slowly, stop when I need a breather and start again. Some days I do well, others, I have to do intervals more. The app now is pretty much just warm ups and running so I'd rather listen to music and my own body and just keep plugging. Don't let a bad day or days slow you down. Your body will adapt at it's own pace. No app can fit everyone and you will get better.
I am uplifted that you are still determined to keep going, I hope I can do that when I don't feel like it, thank you and good luck keep going 😁
You can do it. I just did a slow 2 miles this morning, had to take a 10-15 second breather 2 -3 times, but I finished and feel good. Some of my area is hilly and any incline is an adjustment. ; ) I imagine if we get to the 5k status, our category will have less people . lol My friend got her first 3rd place trophy at 65. Very proud. But it's a trophy just getting out there and moving and not letting the voices of failure get too much in your head.
So slowly does it seems to be the way to success, will try my best thank you 😀
I’m 62 the madness is graduating I enjoy listening to Laura as I jog along never too old 😊
sigasigaGraduate
Definitely not too old! I started last year at 66 and haven't regretted it, and I had never done any running before. Go for it!
Nooooooo of course not! Your never too old to start. I’m 61 and started running again about 2014. The last time I ran was when I was in the army which was over 30 years ago!
Welcome to this super forum where you’ll get loads of support, loads of advice and lots of fun!🤗🤗
Happy running 🎃🎃
Tazzy_wazzyGraduate
No you’re not mad...well maybe a little. You’re journey is about to begin so have fun and come on here for loads of support 🏃♀️
Ha ha thank you 😁
Hi, I’m 55 and ran a half marathon 25 years ago. Since then the only exercise ive done is walk the dog. I’m now onto week 4 week 3! I decided to take one run at a time and see how I felt. Well, I haven’t ached once and am actually enjoying the running. I’m going keep on going! Hope you enjoy it.
BishyBarnabeeGraduate
I can only underline all the above posts! Running shoes on, and off you trot! (Don’t forget the rest of your gear, though ...😉)Nice to see yet another 60+ joining the amazing group here. You’ll get all the support and good advice you want.
Thank you 😁
Show the under 60s way to go 😊
OldgirlrunsGraduate
Huge well done on getting out there, knew you could do it!Try it without the jacket - skin is watertight and once you’re wet, you’re wet! Don’t go tomorrow- you need at least a day between runs - read Iannoda Truffe’s pinned post for all the reasons why. Enjoy, and well done again !
Thank you,but as I said I didn't get far, but it's true about getting wet and what the heck xlolx
I’m 67 next month. I started C25k a few weeks before my birthday last year. Graduated Christmas Eve. Today I ran my first 10k race. I have never felt so alive. So not madness in my opinion. I’m not fast and am unlikely to be but I am fitter and healthier than I I have been since my 20s. So give it a go. I think those who put limits on themselves are mad. We are the sane ones. 😊🏃🏻♀️
Serenity0365Graduate
I was parkrun marshaling on Saturday and there was a man in his early eighties who ran 5k in just over 30 minutes!
CoolcookingteacherGraduate
No. At 61 I started Couch to 5k and went on to do Park Runs....am just happy running now 2-3 times a week 30-40 mins.
You can do this, lots of luck
Go for it. I started last year aged 60 and "graduated " in October. I fell in April which set me back but I started again and am now on Week 7. I have never done any running before and have a fused ankle so am quite pleased with myself. Warning- it becomes quite addictive!
Definitely not! I was 57 when I started running and I love it. Never too late to start. C25K is a brilliant programme. Good luck!
Thank you so much 👍
GreysixtyGraduate
Definitely not! I started in December last year aged 63, never been a runner. Now running 3 times a week, a 20 minutes or so, a 5k , and then a longer run, currently upto about 7k. I have no ambitions to run a marathon but I just love the way it makes me feel. Keep going. It is so worth it.
Not mad. Do build it up gradually following couch25k plan. Run within yourself at conversational pace. I know what happens when you overdo it. Aches fot a week.
I'm nearly 63 and only started recently but enjoy feeling healthier.
Good luck
Hoollio• in reply to
Ohh not looking forward to the aches and pains but it's got to be worth it 😀thank you 👍
Hello
I started running when I was 62, I’m now 68 and still enjoying it!
Had a few pulls and sprains, but when they healed off I went again.
So, go for it!
Give yourself this gift.
Trust the programme and use the forum.
Both will look after you.
Took up the programme 22 months ago and gone through C25k, 10k and HM.
Start week 4 tomorrow of a 3rd repeat of C25k and build up to a first once in a lifetime Marathon for my 77th next year.
Slow, steady, calm and enjoy.
👊💥🏃♀️⭐️👏👏
Phew-thisisfunGraduate
I am 69 and have recently graduated.
My advice is to take it slow but steady.
Keep going and surprise yourself.
Whatever you do, don't be put off by some of the posts from people running 5k in early weeks.
Well done to them but some may not ever run 5k.
To run for 30 minutes regularly is fantastic.
All the best
Great advice thank you. I've not heard anything negative yet 🤔
johnm12Graduate
Not at all. I'm 61, started at the tender age of 59! A whole new world has opened up. The c25k programme is progressive. Suggest though invest in some good trainers from a proper running shop.
See you out there. You will be amazed!
ThelydeGraduate
Give it a go. Don’t let age be a barrier. I started at 54, the achievement feels great.
Good luck 🏃🏽♀️
Hi. I am a 65 year old female and started C25K just before my birthday. I am slow, but finished the program in 9 weeks. Good luck.
FranglaiseGraduate
No...just go for it and think of,all the health benefits...best of luck
I am , thank you 👍
Nana2019Graduate
Absolutely not! I can’t recommend it too highly. You’ll feel great! 😊.
Definitely not! That’s the age I started at. Enjoy the journey.
Am i too old to run at 55 going on 56.
Dont ask for permission and try it.
The hardest thing is getting off your bottom and trying it.
You may even enjoy it and meet other people who enjoy it as well.
RalphSS8Graduate
Yes you are mad! But it's a wonderful kind of madness so don't worry. I started at 64 and 5 years later I'm still running and I have done a half marathon too.
Enjoy the madness
Have wondered that for years😂 but happily giving it a go.....again 🏃🏻♀️ 1st run this morning.
Gran4zGraduate
Yes absolutely crazy, it's such fun being crazy. Happy you've joined the club! I crazily joined when I was 70, and am still stark raving crazy - about running. Enjoy it loads, wish you every success with C25K. Do be aware that this running lark is addictive! Happy days 🙂.
MonkeybizGraduate
Most definitely not, I always wanted to be able to run and never managed it, decided I would give this programme a go, just turned 70 and on week 8! So you are most definitely not too old .... go for it!
CrimpedGraduate
I started this year at 64 - best thing I ever did! I’m now regularly doing a Park Run, and two shorter runs per week. It’s such a good feeling - hope you get into it and make the progress I have!
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