Day 1 Run 1

[Fatbags1]

Well. I did it. This morning I took my dog to a secure field where just myself and my dog would be, and started. Obviously I wasn't dressed correctly. I think my shoes were OK, but because I feel a bit of an imposter I wore some dog walking clothes which meant after my fourth 60 second run I was boiling! Lesson learned I hope. My question- does it get easier???!!!

[Rogie55 Graduate]

When you run, the temperature gets 10 degrees warmer. So that’s why runners wear little in the way of clothes. Yesterday, I nearly took my top off and ran in my sport bra, however, I just showed my midriff. Lol

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Rogie55]

Crikey! 10 degrees! No wonder my jumper and padded gilet were so inappropriate. Not sure I could strip to my bra but who knows - maybe on week 10! Thank you for your reply.

[Rogie55 Graduate in reply to Fatbags1]

I ran for 50 mins yesterday, started a year ago like you. So yes you’ll get there. Have a lovely journey. X

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Rogie55]

Thank you. I really appreciate that.

[Sarah2706 Graduate]

Yes it does get easier. I'm about to start week 5 so not a million miles ahead of you but by the end of this week I should be running a solid block of 20 mins. Even running 5 mins seemed so far out of reach at the start but if you stick to the app it will prepare you for it. Put some headphones in and don't worry about anyone else around you. You're doing it for you not for them. Good luck and well done! 😊

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Sarah2706]

Thank you. I'm determined to do this - if it kills me! Hopefully it won't. Really appreciate your encouragement.

[Speedy60 Graduate in reply to Fatbags1]

It definitely won't! In fact, it's keeping me going at the moment.

Welcome, you can see what a supportive place this is; use it for advice and encouragement whenever you need to. 👍

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Speedy60]

Absolutely. I'm really impressed with everyone's willingness to comment and support. It's been great. Thanks.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

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

As the demands of each week rise, you will have been prepared by the plan, so what now seems impossible becomes possible............easier?, perhaps.

You can make this difficult by pushing hard or much easier by jogging at the recommended easy conversational pace.

Enjoy your journey.

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you

[Shwood Graduate]

Well done, I've just completed week one and I am feeling pretty pleased with myself. It is a challenge, don't worry too much about the clothes as long as you are comfortable. Just focus on how fantastic you feel as you tick off another run. Good luck.

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Shwood]

Thanks for taking the time to reply. I shall watch your journey with interest.

[pippkins Graduate]

It gets easier! My first run was all puff and afterwards my leg muscles ached, but I took my rest-day and then did run 2. It was still doable, there was still a little soreness afterwards but by week 2 the aches had faded as now my body was getting used to having these new muscles worked!

Take it super slow, the first weeks are about getting your body used to the movement and your lungs used to a new breathing rhythm, you can worry about speed after graduation!

Soon you will not believe yourself at how your body gradually adapts - your runs will get easier and longer!

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to pippkins]

Thank you that's so reassuring. I can't wait to do Run 2 now but will take my rest day

[cfulton19]

Hi I started today too! Shouldn't have worn the jacket but didn't have a holder for my phone 😭 achy legs now but I feel a lot better now I've actually started. One tiny pro of isolation, quiet parks!

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to cfulton19]

Congratulations! When is your next run? I'm doing Thursday.Looking forward to it. Good luck.

[cfulton19 in reply to Fatbags1]

Same looking at Thursday and Saturday this week I think. Good luck

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to cfulton19]

👍

[Getfitok Graduate]

Welcome & good luck with your running journey 👍

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Getfitok]

Thank you. I'm looking forward to it. (I think).

[CSH57 Graduate]

Oh well done for getting out there and doing it!

I’ve done w1r2 today. Puffing a lot and snails can move faster lol

Run 3 on Friday .

Good luck with your week

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to CSH57]

Thank you. Great to hear from you. My next run is tomorrow and I'm looking forward to it. This weather is glorious and I'm going to try to wear some more appropriate clothes this time. Wish me luck!

[CSH57 Graduate in reply to Fatbags1]

The dry weather makes all the difference so good luck with your run tomorrow 😎

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to CSH57]

Thank you.

[iBard Graduate]

The first run had been my hardest yet (just finished week 4 now)

So- WELL DONE!

the whole coat on/ coat off- to cold- too hot- 😂😂😂

I think we slowly learn ... slowly😂😂

But starting is the hardest- you may even note that your next run (make sure to leave a days rest to let the body recoup and strengthen) will be a little easier..

Just don’t push too hard or too fast.

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to iBard]

Don't think there's any danger of my going to fast!! But thank you for the support and advice. Good luck with week 5.

[iBard Graduate in reply to Fatbags1]

I’ll make a deal- you finish week one- I’ll finish week 5?

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to iBard]

Done👍

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to iBard]

Morning. Just completed Wk 1 day 3. How did Wk 5 go? Actually felt a tiny bit less bad on.the 3rd run. Monday start Wk 2. Good luck with yours.

[Maddee_6333 Graduate]

The first day is the hardest. Well done.

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to Maddee_6333]

I hope so!! Thanks.

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

It gets amazing and summer is coming well done for starting

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

I saw your post a few days ago. You both look great. Thanks for your kind words and encouragement.

[SueAppleRun Graduate in reply to Fatbags1]

Thank you we have been running almost a year and love it the benefits are wonderful

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

That really is something I can aspire to. Thank you.

[SueAppleRun Graduate in reply to Fatbags1]

It’s well worth keeping it up

[agirlinwinter Graduate]

Yes it does get easier! The first time I attempted W1R1, I thought I was going to die. Now I’m running for 30 minutes.

I found it best to wear layers. I wear a hoody over a t-shirt and I usually end up with the hoody tied around my waist by the end. I didn’t buy any proper running clothes until I finished the programme. I did my C25K runs in jogging bottoms, a t-shirt and a hoody I had already. The only purchase I made was a pair of running shoes at the end of W4.

Keep well hydrated, don’t try to run too fast and just take it one run at a time. You can do this! 👍

[Fatbags1 Graduate in reply to agirlinwinter]

That's really helpful advice. I'm just sorting my clothing for my second run this evening. Mustn't forget my water bottle this time either. Congrats on your completing the programme. Onward and upward!