OFF THE COUCH: W5R3 (why, what, how etc)

[John_W]

If you're keen not to look forward, stop reading right now

There's probably more posts about W5R3 than any other run. And for good reason, cos it's looks odd and scary at first. BUT... it isn't if you take a closer look at the program and how it works.

Just remember that as long as you don't have any limiting physical issues (e.g. clinical/morbid obesity) then *anyone* can complete C25K - it's not a physical test, but a mental one. Your mind ('gremlins') make you think you can't do it (or a certain run) when in fact your body is always ready and prepared for the next run (even W1R1).

So ...

Here's something I wrote about W5R3 :

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and Part 2:

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy!

John

[Sadie-runs Graduate]

Great post, thanks John. I now look back at that 20-min run fondly. I remember being a little daunted, but decided beforehand to trust the programme and do it, no doubts, just do it! Now I consider myself quite an experienced runner, and have even completed a half marathon. However, I still consider that 20-min run one of my greatest achievements, and the moment I truly felt like a runner.

[HealthyHabits_au Graduate]

I have recently graduated the c25k, but really wanted to come back and comment on these w5r3 posts. They made such a difference to my training. I was fearful of this run right from my very 1st week when someone else on Insta commented they were about to do it. In weeks 1 to 4, I was amazed that I was able to progress ... but still 100% doubtful I would ever manage 20mins. I read these posts, and I began to look forward to the challenge- it turned the whole program around for me. After my experience with W5R3, for all of the weeks to follow, although to be honest I did doubt myself a bit, I had the sense to just believe I could do it. I am still absolutely amazed to have completed the program at 46yrs old, 30kg overweight, and having NEVER been a runner. Thank you.

[John_W Graduate Ambassador in reply to HealthyHabits_au]

You're very welcome and that's a lovely post. Congratulations on your graduation! What are your plans now?

[HealthyHabits_au Graduate in reply to John_W]

Basically to just be more comfortable with 5km runs. I have been a parkrunner who walks and volunteers for 5 yrs so am busting for parkrun to return so I run my first course and smash out a PB. Patience, grasshopper.