It really does get easier

[Lizzisforliving]

I started C25K in September 2017, and restarted after an injury in November that year. At first I found it so hard, and willed Michael Johnson to let me stop. Even when I graduated I hadn't run 5k and only kept going until the 30 minutes had elapsed. Anyway, I kept running three times a week, slowly getting to 5k and running that distance every time out. Sometimes I had to stop but mostly I managed to complete that distance. My times were typically in the 34 - 38 minute range.

This summer I realised that I was enjoying most runs, so I decided to try the Magic Plan (to build up to 10k). I had no particular goal, just a desire to push myself, but I discovered I loved running a bit further. Most surprising was that I got faster! My fastest 1K (5'54") and 1 mile (10'16") all came during longer runs. I found out that I am not a naturally fast runner, but I can build up stamina.

I'm no machine - one of the 5ks recently took me 40' - so please don't think this doesn't apply to you. I wanted to post this because when I was out walking today I remembered just how hard running had been (almost a torture) at the beginning. I'm still not fast but I CAN RUN.

Keep running, and keep posting on here xxx

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Great post, you are a lot faster than us but we are faster than we were 😀

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Great post Lifl! 😄 It’s good to hear that patience & persistence has such excellent rewards. 😄

[Cantstopmenow Graduate]

That's great news. This is my experience of the magic plan too. Happy running 🏃‍♀️

[Hidden]

It is great to make progress what ever the starting point. This is why I love running; the progress that I make is only made by comparing me to myself.

[Onewomanscrusade Graduate]

Just what I needed to read. Maybe this is where my strengths will lie - distance over speed! Thanks for posting

[JB88 Graduate]

Such a lovely post. What an amazing journey you have been on discovering your secret long distance ability. Such commitment and inner strength.

[Lizzisforliving Graduate in reply to JB88]

Ooh I’m rather embarrassed now! I’ll get over it though since your avatar is so beautiful. Thank you. Xxx