Just joined

[Mam66]

I should be on week 9 by now but just coming to the end of week 6, I started back in lockdown age 54 never ran since cross country at school which we walked when no one was looking, I started in an pair of old trainers big mistake after two weeks my knees were shot, I invested in a decent pair of running shoes and two knee supports determined not to give up, 2 weeks later I started again from week 1 and here I am, my next run is the 25 minutes one, wish me luck.

[Frizzbomb67 Graduate]

Your story mirrors mine even down to the old trainers 😂. I treated myself to a new pair after graduating but should have done it sooner. I’m 53. My knees and ankles have also suffered especially as the distances have increased but I’ve learned to go slow 🐌 and slower still which is kinder on the joints and makes the runs more comfortable and enjoyable. Wishing you well for your 25 min run. It’s quite a milestone but you’ll feel great afterwards. Just 5 more minutes to add and you’re there! Believe it! You can do it!

[Mam66 in reply to Frizzbomb67]

Thank you for the boost!

As much as I’ve tried no one wants to run with me so it’s an effort to get out, at first I felt like i stuck out but now when I pass a runner they acknowledge me 😂 doing my 25 minutes tonight il let you know how I get on.

[Frizzbomb67 Graduate in reply to Mam66]

Yes do let me know how you get on. It is tough running alone 😏. I like it when runners acknowledge me too and I acknowledge others now. Feels good 😊

[Mam66 in reply to Frizzbomb67]

Did the 25 minute run , mind I think the last 5 minutes Was trailing my feet 😂 thanks for the support!

[Frizzbomb67 Graduate in reply to Mam66]

That’s great! Well done 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Know what you mean about dragging the feet 🦶. About a month after graduating my husband said, ‘your running style is better you’re picking your feet up a bit more’ 😂😂 Such charm!

[tuiliere Graduate]

You are similar to me with how you started! Oh god my knees were so painful but after switching to grass only knee supports and decent running shoes things improved. Plus always leave at least 2/3 rest days in between. I’m 63 never run before and completed in around 15 weeks. You will too! Such a great program Good luck!

[Mam66 in reply to tuiliere]

Thank you 😀

[SouthseaBelle]

Well done, I have just finished week 7. Yes, you're right, decent running shoes are essential. I started week one in "fashion" trainers but switched to some proper trainers pretty soon after that.

[JHWales Graduate]

I did the same, repeating a couple of weeks and difficult runs. It's the best way to do it- slowly and safely! ( I'm 57) I completed the C25K last week and last night I finally managed a full 5k run in 44 minutes and the sense of achievement was amazing. Keep at it at your pace and you'll get there.😀😀

[Mam66 in reply to JHWales]

Thank you it’s really encouraging to hear I’m not alone 😀

[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.

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Really well done, it takes determination to keep going and you are getting through the programme and getting fitter