....I feel very self conscious when I put my leggings on. Has anyone got any tips on how to actually get out the door?!!
I walk my cute Jack Russell with no problem at all...but there’s something about running. I feel like everyone’s watching and judging my huge ass 😂
Any suggestions on how to get over the negative thoughts and actually GET RUNNING would be most welcome!
X
Hi.
I was the same when I first started but I used to say to myself, what do I think when I see other runners? Usually I think absolutely nothing - it didnt even cross my mind to look at a runner. Now I’ve completed the program and am regularly running, I do notice other runners but only have great thoughts about them.
Really what I’m saying is no one will be looking at you and thinking anything negative. People will be cheering you on if they glance your way.
Go for it!
Yes that’s very true! I hadn’t thought about it like that. I always look at runners with admiration and maybe a bit of jealousy that they can actually run! Thank you X
Welcome to the forum and well done on your decision.
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.
You are doing this for YOU.......... it really doesn't matter what anyone else thinks.
What did you think last time you saw someone running? Yep, you are full of admiration.
To be honest, most people will not even see you.
Relax and enjoy your journey.
Thank you 😊 I will defo have a read. Can I ask what are your thoughts on repeating each week twice to help avoid injury? Like I said I walk the Cotswolds a lot, but haven’t run for a long long time...
Slow and steady progress is definitely the best way forward, so there is nothing wrong with repeating runs if you need to, but it is a wonderfully structured plan and if you have good walking fitness, then you will have no problem, I am sure. It is important to maintain momentum and others have lost their way by repeating unnecessarily.
Stay at a conversational pace and you will be fine.
It's your journey to do what works for you. Personally, I wouldn't repeat a week, or a run, unless I hadn't completed it as per the programme. The programme works and it's been well and truly road tested by hundreds and thousands of people.
However, I did always leave at least two days between runs to allow my body to adapt and repair. I'm very ancient and I graduated with no injuries at all(👵🏻😉).
Good luck!
Oh lovey u entitled to get fit for yourself. People more worried about how they look than how you look. Just get out there and be proud of yourself and what you r trying to achieve. U will feel soooooooo good when u get back 😘😘😘
Awww 😍 thank you! Yes I know you’re right. I will do my first run early tomorrow. Scared/Excited! I will report back X
Great looking fwd to hearing how u do. GO SLOWER than u think is possible.
I felt stupid the first time, but we are doing something positive so hold your head up high and go for it. I don't care anymore!! I see people running and admire them. People will think that about you. Good luck and well done for starting.
Oh did you feel like that too? Ok it’s good to know I’m not the only one. There’s so many Uber fitness pros on my road (well they look like it to me! ☺️) But I’ve gotta start somewhere eh? Thank you for your encouragement X
Very much so yes. I dreaded seeing anyone I knew. My daughters came with me from the start which helped. I do W9R3 tomorrow and still wear a huge baggy t-shirt 😂. Go for it x
Leggings are not compulsory. Doubly so for fellas. 😆
There's something you learn very quickly: runners are invisible to non runners.
😂😂😂 Good tip thanks C
Being a bit body-conscious I hate having my legs out in public. I run in some loose walking pants. The more I run, though, the more I want to do it in the right gear.. so I've upped my game and got some fitted running shoes... I love them, and my walking pants 
Yes! Maybe the leggings are a bit ambitious. I have some stretchy walking pants I might wear those! Great idea. Thank you X
I am with you on the taking the plunge ! First run is like leaping into a freezing cold pool with fear and repudiation and that buzz of how amazing you feel about it afterwards ! My only advice at the moment is go for clothes that will keep you cool . Long runners and sleeved tops may overheat you despite the feel of ‘covering up’. I reckon anyone who even bothers to notice a jogger or runner who isn’t one themselves wishes they had the courage and motivation to get off their backsides . Think of this as you jog past someone and hold that head up HIGH with a big smile 😃
I felt exactly the same at the start (now I don’t care) do what I do and wear shorts over your leggings. M & S do some great ones with what I call fake Spanx underneath, stops my ‘wobble’ (a bit) 😆
Funny I was literally just on Amazon looking at running shorts to put over the leggings. Leggings are a bit ‘graphic’ 🤣 I’m kinda inclined to go the F* it route and show the world my wobble....! But if that doesn’t work I will have a look at the fakey Spanx X
I don't use leggins, just because it is not my thing (although that is not the part of my body that I feel particularly self conscious about), so I think that sport long pants or shorts are natural options. We don't need to look all the same.
I felt self-conscious at the beginning about being seen running only for 60 seconds, so I run in zigzag in different streets so noone would be long on my path 😅
We all are self conscious about something and the truth is no one cares about how we are running. It is a realisation that comes after several runs. You won't worry that much in a few weeks
We’ve all been there and just reading your post brings it all back. The thing is you want to do this, and that is a big step in itself. Try and do your first few runs first thing in the morning when there is less people around and it’s a lot cooler. If you do pass anyone just acknowledge them, a good morning or just a gentle nod or hand raise, it will make you feel good and help to gain confidence. If they are running they will know exactly what you are going through. In next to no time you will be so into your zone that you won’t think about anyone around you. No it’s not easy but it is very doable, as most here would agree we never thought we would complete the programme and get to graduation but it soon becomes a personal achievement and you will find that you soon start to look forward to each run. Remember drink lots the day before to keep hydrated and it’s not a sprint so slow and steady. We are all here for you, good luck and let us know how you get on. 👍👍
Wow thank you what a great message. I will keep this in my head when I go for my first run tomorrow morning. Agreed it’s super scorchio at the moment so running first thing makes sense. Fantastic X
Once you step outside, put the app on and some music and you'll soon drift into your own world, well I do anyway 😀 I run In the forest and most other runners, horse riders and walkers are friendly and say good morning if they do take any notice.
That sounds lush. It’s pretty serious hills here (Cotswolds) so I’m gonna have to start on the flat-ish roads before I tackle the peaks! I’d love to be fit enough to join a hill running club. That’s my dream. Do you always run with music? X
Yep I always run with music. I use the BBC Sounds app and download training mixes from there. There is no reason why you couldn't join a Hill Running Club you'll soon be addicted to running👍
Ha!, I remember running down a country lane and a car that could have passed me, courteously remained behind me.
Never have I been more conscious about my backside.
I wanted to jump into the ditch, but I doubt they gave it a second thought.
When I see runners they impress me.
This is one of the best things you will ever do.😊😊😊
Oh my god that made me laugh loudly. That’s hilarious and hideous in equal measure!!! Thank you. I’m feeling super inspired to get going X
If I see anyone jogging along that’s a little overweight I’m full of admiration for them, I think good on you for getting out there and getting fit. The truth is nobody actually pays any attention to you whatsoever, it’s all in our minds. Go out at 6am when it’s nice and cool, it’s the best time to run and streets are pretty quiet that time of day too if you feel self conscious, plus it’ll set you up for the rest of the day.....Good Luck 👍
I like that idea of having that peaceful time first thing when it’s quiet. I will set my alarm. Thank you for your encouragement X
Hi, like most of the other have said, I also felt the same. I have a little tip that worked well for me. I started off running around an area with lots of streets that weren't very long. This meant that I didnt feel embarrassed for running for just 1 to 2 mins and then stopping, because as I left one street and turned a corner no one could see me stop (even though no one was actually watching anyway) , by the time I was doing longer runs I became more confident. Good luck and enjoy the journey
Oh my god my brain totally works like that too!!! Yes. I will start on pavements on shorter roads before I head into the hills or woods. Thank you X
I have just started couch to 5k today and have felt very self conscious causing me to put it off for weeks. I have used shielding a sick child as an excuse. Today i got up early and put my music on and went for it. I felt so alive, well mentally at least! I look forward to being confident at running anytime but for now i will go early morning.
Ahhh good to hear from someone else who is just starting. Yes early morning sounds a very good plan - from both temperature and less googley eyes!! 👀 X
Welcome.
You’re not going to be running from the door, there’s at least a 5 minute warmup walk... and you can walk before that too if you like. I drove away from home to do this, but I do regret not just getting out there and being seen. The vast majority of people you will see while running won’t even notice you... then the biggest share of the remaining people will have an encouraging word or two for you. That leaves a tiny minority who will react to your run in some other way... in my experience the idiots out there are less than 10% of this 10% of the 20% who noticed me at all... the others got inspired... some asked me how to get started, a handful I’ve seen actually do C25K for themselves. You may meet an idiot, but you will meet some lovely folks too... and you may get someone who’s just like you to at least think about getting fitter and healthier... you’ll inspire more people than you’ll ever know... and that’s worth the very rare idiot.
You can do this... go inspire people... go find out just how awesome you are... enjoy your journey... and just think, any idiots you do meet probably can’t run a mile... they also need to start this, and when they grow up, they may well give it a go.
Happy running.
Oh so true! There’s always going to be idiots in all things isn’t there 😂 best to just crack on. I’m going to lay out my running stuff now. Blimey I’m so glad I posted on here - feel so much more confident about going running now. Awesome! X
Enjoy that run... take it nice and slowly... come tell us all about it after.
Age, size , doesn’t matter you’re doing it! I look at everyone and smile, say hello and think good for you . Best of luck with your journey
I am yet another one who knows just how you feel. I am now into week 9, and I still much prefer to go first thing in the morning when there are not many people up and about - but I am getting more confident.
Everyone out there is either a non-runner, thinking they could never do what you are doing (if they notice you at all) or a runner, who knows what it is like to start!
Reading through this thread I can see you have / had the same fears as most of us did when we started .
But as everyone has already said , no one will be watching you , but if it's going to be warm then go early !
I notice you asked if you should repeat the weeks twice to avoid injury ?
There is absolutely no need for that .
Read the guide to the program , do the warm up excercises and cool down stretches, make sure you are fully hydrated and make the runs very slow , once you think it's slow enough then slow it down more !
If you follow the plan and read the guide then as you complete a run you will be physically ready for the next one .
You only need to repeat a run that you don't complete , why do the program twice ? 😁
Most of all , enjoy it and let us know how you get on 👍
Thank you - so helpful. Lots of comments about taking it super slow...I will happily do that!
Feel really positive now are eager to get going tomorrow.
I will update X
Great !
Pleased to see your motivation !
You will always get plenty of support on here !
Enjoy your run tomorrow 👍
For the first few weeks I used to walk a long way from my house before I started the programme, but I very soon forgot about everybody else and just goton with it. I found a months later that a couple of my neighbours were indeed watching me - with envy that they weren't doing the same!
Haaa yes let them watch! I love that attitude. Thank you X
I know it's difficult, and I was exactly the same when I started. To add to the challenge, I live in a tiny village, so anyone who sees me probably recognises me!
However, while I can't 100% guarantee that nobody will judge you adversely, I can absolutely promise you that anyone who does is a prize wazzock whose opinion you can safely ignore.
I’m in a tiny village too! 🤣 Everyone’s er very ‘interested’ in each other aren’t they. I think my wine recycling has in the past raised a brow or 2 😬
Wazzock is a fabulous word that I shall keep in my head if anyone makes me feel self conscious! X
Runners are invisible to everyone else
When i first started c25k i had no running gear at all and refused to spend much cause I was convinced I wasnt going to stick it.
I went to m and s outlet and bought a bargain £4.50 pair of green orangeHawaiian cropped pair.
i am sure i bought them to put me off going out running.
Guess what? Other runners complemented me on them. i am 5 “tall and overweight
i start week 8 Tuesday and am loving it.
If you got it flaunt it🤣no one else is bothered what you look like.
You are doing this for you. Enjoy😁
As long as you are comfortable thats all that counts 😁
Now I want to see those shorts!! 😄 Amazing yes, you are dead right - comfort is everything. Thank you X
Yeah I want to see these shorts too, they sound awesome! Like you, I don’t want to spend.. yet.. I fear the run bug may bite pretty soon.. ☺️
I have a fat ass as well and a massive fear of not being able to do it. Initially I drove to where I intended to do the run (I’m lucky we have a really nice cycle running path) really early and started the plan. It was hard at first but as time went on I had to ditch the car to get more track. Now I have graduated and feel proud, when someone I know drives past me at 6.30 am and waves I feel great. There are times you feel like you can’t do it but trust the program it really works. I would never have believed I’m could do it but you can and the more you do it the more confident you get. You won’t care what you look like soon, because you will be a runner!
Thank you so much for your message! It’s good to know you also felt self conscious - but that you overcame that as you actually did the course. Wow the thought of calling myself a ‘runner’ feels a long way off right now. But is so good to hear you graduated and have that confidence. You show it’s possible! Awesome 😎 X
No problem, let me know how your next run goes x
I felt exactly the same when I started - I wear a baseball cap it also keeps my hair out of my eyes! I really don’t think people look at you - I often find that people don’t even step out of the way ( they don’t see an older person shuffling towards them just a runner) - obviously a downside to that but still they aren’t judging. Once you get going you’ll be amazed the confidence you gain. Good luck!
Well, I was a bit self conscious going out running, thinking about how I look and if I catch a reflection I am never sure whether to look or look away 😂🤣 but something I always bear in mind is that I am lapping everyone who is still on the couch and thinking about exercising.
It is a massively positive thing and the people that you think might be judging you won't know what it feels like to set goals and smash them. Anyone that does will be cheering you on. Anyone who doesn't, doesn't matter.
And besides, you will pass other runners and will get the knowing looks and positive smiles and waves as we all know what is going on.
Be proud of yourself for doing this. Think, this girl can!! And you will.
Hey thank you so much! Just read your post about graduating and how that felt. It’s a hugely inspiring and very honest read. Well done you!
I’ve been quite frankly blown away by how responsive, thoughtful and positive people are in this group! Totally unexpected. Never experienced anything like it.
I’ve gone from feeling dread for my first run tomorrow - to er...looking forward to it! Whaaattt?! How did this happen haaa. Anyway thanks again X
Brilliant!! No need to thank me.... it's what we are all here for. This group truly is something special and definitely worth tunning to be a part of it too xx
Hope today goes well!! Do let us know 😊😊
p.s. the benefits will quickly outweigh these thoughts 😘
Hey lovely!.. WOW your post took me back! Haribo's are not my friend! 
but I'm lapping all those Couch potato's and so will you be soon! We will have the last laugh!
I think everyone who starts this thinks the same but guess what??
Your life has just got a whole lot more fab! Wait until you truly get bitten by the C25k bug!
I'm giggling with mischief here because guess what - in a few weeks you will be waving to fellow runners as they pass - its like a little secret society!... it's mutual and tho you promise yourself you won't do it.... YOU DO!! (I did it tonight when someone waved at me!)
I'm really excited for you!.. starting tomorrow!.. wow!.. you haven't got a clue how magical this journey is - I couldn't run for 20 seconds week 1 and I'm running 5k now.. don't get me wrong it's not easy but this C25K plan is something special! If I can do it then you definitely can! Sense of achievement is brilliant! Should have seen my sweaty red face when i managed to complete Week 1 (running for 60 seconds at a time), grinning like a Cheshire cat! I swear I walked home feeling 10 foot tall!
THIS PLACE - there is nowhere like it! - I promise you - the sheer weight of support from everyone will carry you through the weeks! I could not have graduated without them (Read my post... it will give you a few giggles that's for sure!)
My advice to you
1. post after every run - good, bad or indifferent - the replies really motivate you and make you feel part of something special, plus if you are beating yourself up cos you've had what you think is a bad run, well that's when this place really works it's magic - The people on here are just A-MAZ-ING .... so supportive. You will feel like wonder woman by the time you've finished reading their replies.
2. When you think you are going slow enough then knock it down a gear (See video) - we ALL start off too fast!
3. Make a playlist - it distracts you and you zone off into your own little world. The app will run in the background and you can listen to your music... someone recommended Little Mix 'Power' to me..... It's great! There is a line in it 'Who's got the power?' and I always shout in my head 'I HAVE!!'
Can't wait to see you progress - I will feel like a proud mum!
Just wanted to add some encouragement as you get ready for the first run this morning, I think you will surprise yourself by how great it feels to have started. I remember Jo saying on week 3 or 4 runs that no matter how hard it feels getting the run done, no matter how slow, is the best feeling and totally worth the effort.
If it's any consolation, I'm 3 stone overweight and I've just done my first run of week 2. For me, getting my gear on actually helps my mindset and makes me feel like a runner, even though I'm just starting out.
I DO wear leggings (three quarter length ones) and you can get the ones with the skirt on too which covers your bottom! They look like you've got a netball skirt on over leggings and look ace 😁
Trust me I know how hard this is, I've always admired runners and thought I'd never be able to do this in a million. Go early mornings if you're self conscious or late evenings, use the quiet places for your routes.
I always read this members page before I've got a run because it reminds me that I'm not the only one and it IS possible.
You've got so much support here.
You go kick ass, leggings, shorts or a onesie! X
Good luck today.. you’ll be fine 👍
When I started felt exactly the same. I used to drive 5 min away and run in the woods so no one could see. I was very self conscious and very unconfident. By week 5 I was out on the common and now I don’t give a toss. Couch to 5k helped me with loads of other stuff besides fitness. Truth is no body is looking at you and thinking anything bad. When I see other people struggling a bit I always wonder what week they are on and want to shout out support😀. Chose somewhere you can be in nature: I found that helps. Good luck🌻
Insideout20, I know you’ve had lots of replies and encouragement already but I just had to share my story with you. Hopefully it will make you realise that however embarrassed you feel, you’ve got nothing on me!!
I felt just like you at the start, I’m 53, never ran before, allergic to exercise and vey unsporty-looking (especially the arse 🤣🤣🤣). I’d got to about Week 3 and just getting over the embarrassment when at the end of a run I ran past an elderly, scruffy, tramp-like chap who had a beagle just like mine. Well as I was approaching my house and he was walking away from my house, I thought he had stolen her! Panic descended and I was shouting at him ‘you’ve stolen my dog, give her back’ and trying to wrestle the lead from his hand! Long story short, it was his dog who just happened to look like mine. No body worries will ever be as embarrassing as assaulting an elderly man and trying to nick his dog!! So take heart, chin up, be proud of yourself and keep running!!! Xx
Ps I’ve graduated and am still running and see the old chap and his dog every now and then 🤣😂😂
The biggest struggle is getting out of the door. I always used to think I would be judged for running whilst cars were stopped at traffic lights. I changed my mindset and found that most people smile or think ' I need to do that' you need to accept that everyone starts somewhere. Maybe try running with your dog to help you build up the confidence and make sure you pick a good person to talk you through whilst running. I have Sarah Milagan and she's really good. Good luck x
Fish, chips and mushy peas!
Hello all - 71 years old and hoping to run!
