Hello everyone!

[Raverunner]

Newbie runner here. I used to love running many years ago at school especially 800m and cross country. Fast forward almost 20 years and 6 stone heavier its time to take the leap and sort my life out. 😂 I’ve been strength training for a year and love that but the weight just isn’t shifting so I’ve started couch to 5k in the hope of getting the running bug! Just completed run 2 of week 2. Got myself some running shoes etc but any other tips would be welcomed! I’m tempted to do a park run in a couple of weeks time and run it in intervals like the app has me doing. Am I running before I can walk? (Literally) 😂😂 thanks 😊

[SofaJockey]

I'm pretty sure exercise isn't the whole answer to weight-loss, as neither is diet alone. A dietary tweak might lead to the gentle shift you are looking for. But from an exercise perspective, you sound to me as if you're doing great. 😊

[Raverunner in reply to SofaJockey]

Thanks! I’ve started tracking my macros so hopefully this and the running will help get results. 👍

[Speedy60 Graduate]

The statistic banded around is 80% diet, 20% exercise. No idea whether that's accurate. I lost my weight through changing my diet (not 'dieting'). But I keep it regulated with exercise.

Lots of folk here use parkrun as part of the programme. It sounds like a great idea if you like running with other people.

Good luck

[Raverunner in reply to Speedy60]

Thanks so much!

[DevonBluebird]

Yeah go for it! Agree that it’s mostly diet unfortunately, but maybe a running habit will make your body want to eat ‘better’ so weight loss will happen naturally? Good luck!

[Raverunner in reply to DevonBluebird]

Thanks! I know it’s mostly diet! 🙂 I lost 2 stone but unfortunately put on a few pounds over Xmas and new year so I’m hoping this couch to 5k will inspire me to get back at it and lose even more. Enjoying the running so far! I’m doing it along with a work colleague so it’s nice having each other to stay motivated! I was thinking a park run might encourage us even more.

[DevonBluebird in reply to Raverunner]

It’s a shame about the diet isn’t it! I’m currently at least 1.5 stone overweight- on week 3 & though not lost any weight I did need a belt today for the first time in ages! I’m taking it 😁.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.

[Raverunner in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you so much!

[Sewnotfit Graduate]

I found the My Fitness Pal app really helpful for weight loss when I needed to get into a dress I’d bought for my 50th birthday party!! I started using it by not making any changes to what I was eating but just logging everything I was eating. This gives you an insight into whether you are eating nutritionally poor foods or your portions are too big ( for me it was a bit of both!) and it’s then easier for you to see which tweaks you could make without feeling too deprived. I’ve only started C25k recently but I was thinking I might get back into My Fitness Pal again because I could do to lose a bit more. Being only 5’ tall my ideal weight is not much more than that of a toddler 🤣🙈

And I agree that doing C25k does make you more health mindful in general, so eating better feels do-able!!