61 & unfit... Just started the c25k, it's my 3rd wk but still doing wk 1!! it's cruelling, I can't run 60seconds yet, so no point moving on to wk2.
It's my calfs n shins thats the problem, they hurt when I run even though I do the warmup/down and stretches.
My legs feel heavy (I am over weight) I feel like I'm sinking.
At this moment I can't see myself ever running 5k....
But I won't give up.
Just make sure you’re not trying to run too fast, slow it right down
I was also going to ask if you are taking it slowly? And have you read the pinned post on How to run Couch to 5k?
Very useful reading and may reassure you - please keep posting ..and we will keep cheering you on!😀
Maybe you need to go back a step. There is another app/forum on here which gets you walking rather than running. If you do a brisk walk for 30 minutes (rather than the slogfest of 10,000 steps) you can do your health a world of good. Unfortunately, I can't remember what it's called. Active10 or something like that.
Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.
This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...
and includes advice on the correct pace........slow down. #heavy legs are symptomatic of poor hydration......see the guide.
Enjoy your journey.
The fact you’re attempting it is brilliant! Keep going 😊
I like your spirit! Really, truly keep at it. Do slow it right down as suggested, make sure you rest between run days, drink water as you need it. With your lovely determination and persistent effort, you will get there. The journey is different for each of us. Just take the time you need.
Yes to all the above......Slow down, as slow as you can go, drink plenty of fluids, and maybe try some strengthening exercises:
nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/s...
Good luck, and don’t give up 👍😁
You've got determination and you really need that. As others have said slow down if needed and slow some more. When you're running try to land softly as possible so no thud thud don't worry it just takes practice.
Are you drinking the recommended 2-3 litres of water per day it really helps. Good luck and you CAN do it 😊
I have nothing but admiration for your determination. 👊You're doing better than all those still on the couch!
I really admire your determination- who cares if it takes you longer than the 9 weeks?? You’re moving in the right direction that’s what matters and you’re not on the couch! 🙌
I'll echo what everyone else has said, Well Done You your determination & tenacity are admirable! It's not a race, completing the course is what matters, not how quickly you do it, or how far you go when you run W9 R3. There than slowing your pace down (something I still have to consciously force myself to do in W5) the other advice I have, or question I must add is about shoes, and gait analysis. Having a proper pair of running shoes can make a huge difference and (although I've not had gait analysis myself) apparently, having the best shoes to suit the way that you run can also help with aches and pains. Whatever, keep doing this at your own pace, push yourself a bit, not so anything hurts (that's bad), but so that things ache a bit, then you'll be reminded that you're not sat on the couch, but you are going out running so you can feel proud/smug (delete where applicable) about that! Keep letting us know how you progress along this adventure trail that is C25K, we are all here cheering you on and offering support if/when you need it.
Keep it up! I remember gasping for breath in week 1 and thinking I will never be able to do this. You will. The programme works. Have faith and as everyone says ‘slow down’. My run at that point was more of a walk with a bounce!
Well done, that’s amazing
I did the Active 10 app before starting C25K and switched when I found my normal walking was 'brisk' and could do it for ever. Figured it wasn't really getting me any fitter than I was, though very good for me!! All the advice on here is great (see IT's link) - running verrrryyyyyy slowly, hydrate, finding a time of day that works for you, warming up and down, shoes, takingvmore time off between runs...... There is some good advice about shin splints somewhere, which are evidently quite common with new runners. Don't worry if you have to repeat runs - you WILL gradually get fitter. If I can do it, so can you. 🐌👍🏃♀️
I would not worry about how many weeks you take, you are only on your third Wk1. Our group of 8 who are on average half your age repeated week one 5 times. So by my logic you could repeat it 10 times before even equalling our record (twice our age so twice as long eh?... that makes sense to me).
No matter how long it takes you WHEN you get to Wk2 the sense of accomplishment is immense and you WILL get there.
I have found reading posts on this site really inspiring particularly when following peoples progress and the difficulties they have overcome.
So as you progress, keep posting as it is not just your fitness that will be improving but you will be an inspiration to those following up behind. This site is fantastic for the motivation and advice that is given. Good luck, you can do it.
Agree with all the others don’t give up! You will get there & are in a much better position than if you hadn’t started in the first place. Well done, you are strong and your determination will see you through
Everyone has said everything helpful so i will just say good luck, we started at 63 and it was hilarious how unfit we were
Thanks everyone, decided today to go for wk 2 run 1...yes I did it, all 5 90 second runs... With the help of duchess Kate Middleton podcast to take the mind of my shins. I also slowed down to a mere very slow jog..
Ps. I have some decent reebok floatride trainers.
Looking forward to my 2nd run on Thursday.
Wk 1 - courage flagging
Wk 4 run 1 
Wk 5 here I come!
Wk 2 run 1 - killer!
Wk 2 done
