I’ve made a start although didn’t make it past 4 minutes of total running in either run one or run two. I know I’m going to be repeating week one for a while yet, which is fine, but just wondering how important the rest days in between are. I’m feeling like I really want to go out and have a run again today, which should be a rest day.
Just wondered what others experiences and thoughts are on this. Thank you
My thoughts.... they are not negotiable!, you can do other non impact exercise such as swimming, cycling, walking.
They are a repair day rather than rest.
Running on a 'rest day " significantly increases your risk of injury.
I notice that you are just starting out, so that's great, I recall the enthusiasm, but there's no point running straight onto the injury couch, take it from me, there's no fun in that.
The programme is brilliant, and designed to safely take you off the couch to running for 30 minutes.
Of course you are an adult and able to make your own choices.
Good luck with the programme 😊
The rest days are more important than the run days. You need the time in between to repair the micro tears in the muscles, this in turn makes your muscles stronger. I know it’s tempting but please stick to the program - it’s proven to work. Good luck.
In my opinion one word - VERY 👍😁
That’s what I was going to say Wenderwoo 😆
Thank you all, I appreciate you taking time to read my question and reply. I will follow your advice, as the last thing I want or need, having suffered injury after injury and varying health issues the last few years which have contributed to never being able to start this before.
Thank you again 
You need your rest days, as others have said, so your body can repair.
It makes the run days all the more exciting!😄
I cycle, walk & do Pilates on my rest days ... lots of complimentary things to choose from. 😄
I think the rest day question has been well and truly answered.
The other important points to note, if you just starting out, is that speed wins no prizes here.
Go slow, and if you're struggling, go slower. Anything about a walking pace and you're doing it.
And dont get hung up on the 5k thing either. The program will get you running for 30 minutes. That's the main aim. Most people dont manage 5k by the time they have finished. 30 minutes is all you're aiming for.
But first of all.....take a rest
Mig
Please read the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5...
When you run, the impact creates microtears in your muscles, which repair and strengthen on your rest days, not while running. Without rest, repair and strengthening are compromised and injury risk increased., especially if your fitness levels mean that you are having difficulty.
Enjoy your journey
Thank you RunningMigster and IannodaTruffle, your advice and support is welcome
"Rest" days
skipping rest days
Rest days
Rest days
Rest Days 
