Does it get any easier!!!

[Jaromida]

Hi. I have just completed my first week having never run in my life. I’m now 60 and am overweight with various health issues including diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma. I really want to do this, particularly to help my health and lose weight but am struggling - in particular with my knees and feet. Does it get easier as really want to persevere but am worried I could causing damage to my joints. I really want to do this but it’s not got any easier with each session. Any suggestions??

[Allbarron Graduate]

First of all...well done you!!! You've completed the hardest part. You have put on those shoes and got out there. The main.thing you need to remember is this programme is not a race or competition. It's all about you. There are a few posts you need to read on the FAQS about taking things slowly, stretching but I'm sure others will mention that too. The thing I've learnt is there's always a challenge but it's something I look forward to. If it was easy there'd be no need for the programme. Take each run at a time and your body will adapt.

Take strength and encouragement from the forum and just remember the reasons you started when it seems difficult and you're struggling!! Good luck and keep in touch. You can do this👍👍

[Jaromida in reply to Allbarron]

Thank you so much for your positive words. As you say it’s best to take 1 run at a time - was just feeling a bit down as the 3rd run seemed harder than the first. I so want to be able to do this!! Thanks again.

[Allbarron Graduate in reply to Jaromida]

It's ok to feel down... Give yourself time! I graduated in march and am now trying to run 10 k.🥴 Honestly I don't know if I will but if someone had told me I'd be at this point back in January when I started C25K I would have never believed it.🤯 When you read the posts on here you'll see most people have the same outlook. The most used phrase is possibly "if I can do it...". Accept when you feel down 🥺 the trick is to use it as motivation and prove you can!!!!! Come on Jaromida... If I can.....🏃🏃🏃

[nowster Graduate]

The answer is yes and no.

Yes, you will find each run you've just done much easier. You're getting fitter.

No, the programme is designed to stretch your abilities at each advance. However, the nature of the challenge changes over time as you get fitter.

If you'd said to me a year ago that I'd have willingly gone out at 7am yesterday and run for 25 mins, I'd have replied with some choice language.

[Ruby69 Graduate]

Keep going but slow down til you’re almost walking but not quite. Take 2 rest days if you need to. And slow down. Stretch stretch stretch afterwards. Good luck.

[davelinks Graduate]

Well done! First off, never try and run through pain, always rest up. It's likely you're running too fast, (it happens a lot with new runners) you can always slow down, to survive in c25k speed is key, so, slow n steady.

Body has to get used to the excercise, so should improve as you go on and get a bit fitter, again, slow n steady!

It's not easy at first but try not to let feet thump down on the ground, kissing it with the forefoot, less on heel, you may want to check your shoes for cushioning, it's early days yet, but by w4 if still doing the plan then get a pair of running shoes, looking after feet & legs is paramount..

[Jaromida]

Thank you everyone for your inspiring words. They have helped me through a bit of a blip in my enthusiasm. Starting on week 2 tomorrow so hoping I can manage it!!!

[030961 Graduate in reply to Jaromida]

I think we all have experienced times during our runs when we think we can’t do it. My mantra when things get hard is always to say to myself ‘no prizes for going quicker.....no prizes’. That keeps me going at my pace even when at times it is barely quicker than walking.

And.....although you can’t see us, we are all there cheering you on, in a kind of figurative cuddle. Go well....you’ll be so proud of yourself as you make progress through the weeks.

[Blackberrypie Graduate]

Running is an odd mix of pushing your body to do things you never thought it could and being very, very cautious not to push it too far and end up injured.

Getting the right shoes should help your knees and feet - getting expert advice from a podiatrist or running shop seems a very useful investment. (My knees were starting to hurt really badly but £150 for 2 sessions and some custom insoles made a colossal difference and I'm sure contributed to me being able to run).

In the longer term your muscles and joints will adapt, but obviously you need to be careful to protect them while you build up.

[Smile23 Graduate]

Go slow go slower. Repeat!

Listen to your body

If you go at your own pace with a positive attitude you will do it😁

My asthma has never been better. I do take an antihistamine which helps too

I am starting week 8 Tuesday and can now run for 25 mins!!!

Good luck and most of all enjoy 😊

[Couchphoenix Graduate]

Well done for completing your first week. 👏🏻👏🏻 Running socks and a good quality pair of running shoes will help your joints, as they will soak up the impact. Gait analysis helps too. It’s hard when you begin as the demands your putting on your body are a shock to the system. But stick with it and you’ll be amazed as your strength and stamina gradually increase. Eat healthy food too to fuel your runs.....Good Luck 👍

[Jaromida]

Thank you so much everyone. It helps to know that most people find it difficult at times. Having never run in my life before I never realised just how hard it was but I am glad I have started this journey and am determined to stick with it. Thanks again and happy healthy running to you all. 🏃🏻‍♀️🏃