New to the crew :)

[mummyrunner79]

Hi everyone, thought I'd do an introduction as I've just joined the community.

I don't usually join forums or communities - partly because I make the excuse I don't have the time (I'm a mum to a 4 year old and an almost 2 year old and I currently work remotely 5 half days a week), but also because I'm not great at putting myself out there (I'm a bit of an introvert with bouts of low mood and anxiety thrown in for good measure). Anyway, I decided to start the NHS Couch 2 5k not long after we went into lock down back in March - and promptly sprained my ankle at the end of week 1 so had to rest up for a couple of weeks!

Fast forward to today and I'm on week 7 of the programme. I completed run 1 of week 7 yesterday and found it much more hard going than week 6, run 3 (also approx 25 mins). I managed my first 5k on week 6, run 3 in 25:36. I was more than happy with that time as a relative beginner runner. I should mention I previously did Couch 2 5k over the summer of 2016 after the birth of my first child, but I haven't run since then as my eldest was a terrible sleeper for a long time and then I had another baby in 2018. I think having run before gave me a bit of an advantage this time around as I knew I could do it, even though it was blooming hard work during the first few weeks.

So far, I've found it more enjoyable on the longer runs than I ever thought I would. I struggled to start with on the shorter interval runs so we went on family walks on non running day during April and May. I definitely think that helped. I've always been an active person but it's still been a challenge doing those 3 and 5 minute runs. I think most of the battle is getting your muscles used to doing something total different to what you're used to. I feel really motivated to become a stronger, (hopefully) faster runner as time goes on. It's good to have something positive to focus on and look forward to during these uncertain times.

So that's me. I'm going to try to keep posting and hopefully connecting with and supporting others in the community. I'll be the one posting at an obscene hour when the kids are in bed ;0)

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

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

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.

[mummyrunner79 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you Yes, I definitely need to read it after the ankle incident. I don't want to risk overdoing it this early on!

[Dmc33 Graduate]

Good work. 5k in 25 minutes is amazing! I also have 2 small ones - well done on just getting out of the house 😂

[mummyrunner79 Graduate in reply to Dmc33]

Thank you Ha, I know, it is rather like a military operation when you've got young kids! I'm up at 6ish for breakfast and out running by 7:30am so I can get back in time to shower and dress before my partner leaves for work. All good fun!

[Dtay1978 Graduate]

Welcome 😊

[mummyrunner79 Graduate in reply to Dtay1978]

Thank you

[Newbie59 Graduate]

Well done on tackling it again, especially with family demands. I check out the forum most days so I feel connected with other runners. Still can't believe that I am a runner

[mummyrunner79 Graduate in reply to Newbie59]

Thank you Ahhh, it sounds like you love running It gives you a definite buzz, doesn't it? (as well as the stitch ;))

[SweatyHettie Graduate]

Hello and welcome - this is a lovely place for support and advice. Wow I’m in awe of your 5K time, I’m a happy plodder who has just reached 5K post grad in 40 mins! 🐌🐢

[mummyrunner79 Graduate in reply to SweatyHettie]

Thank you Honestly, I applaud anyone who can cover over 3 miles running. How many people walk 3 miles these days, never mind run?! 40 mins is great

[SandraY1 Graduate]

Welcome and well done 👍

[mummyrunner79 Graduate]

Thank you