im 23 and in the worst shape of my life.

[HughHunny]

struggled on my first run... had to take a little break... so well done there... However, I am determined to improve and complete the 5k... no matter how long it may take...

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Welcome and well done for getting started

[nowster Graduate]

We've been there. My first attempt at Week 1 (before Easter) was [expletive] difficult too.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Well done.

If you struggle on any run, just slow down.

The recommended pace for C25K is one at which you can speak clear ungasping sentences as you run, as explained in the guide to the plan.

[RunBrianRun Graduate]

Yep we’ve all been there 😂 Don’t worry it really will get better. Just be patient and run slowly. I was a smoking drinking layabout when I started 3 years ago 😬

[Maurs12 Graduate]

I was shockingly bad in week one too - it took everything I had - your determination will see you through - it get’s easier!

[mgrds Graduate]

Just keep going and it will come

[JulesL69 Graduate]

Trust in the programme, believe me it works. The runs can be challenging at times but you will be prepared for them, that’s the magic of the programme. Oh and lots of determination helps ! Good luck

[Hula_hooping_rach Graduate]

Don’t be hard on yourself!

Week 1 was awful for me, I only managed 3 of the intervals on the very first run and collapsed on the floor in a panting heap about half way through 😂. Slightly more of them on run 2 and then all of the intervals for run 3.

I’m now about to run the final run of the programme, which is 30 mins long.

You will get there, just be patient!!

[spongecat Graduate]

Well done! You have made the best decision! There will be times when you think "What on earth am I doing?" and times of great elation and achievement.

Don't think you need to go fast., that is not necessary for now. Now is the time to build stamina and endurance. A great many do not do 5k in 30 minutes, the idea is that you will be running for 30 minutes non-stop three times by the end of the course.

Have a look at this video......

youtu.be/9L2b2khySLE(Not working as expected?)

I was given this video to look at when I was struggling in the first week and thought I would never even get into week 2 because I was puffing myself out by going too fast. Learning this technique was a revelation and it is actually very relaxing too.

Great to have you here, the folks here are very encouraging and the experienced ones will have loads of tips.

Good luck and enjoy the journey!

[HughHunny in reply to spongecat]

Thank you for this, really enjoyed the video, they also made me released I also landed on my heals XD this video actually helped with my last run! Really appreciate the comment!

[HughHunny]

Just wanted to say thank you for all the positive comments, its really reassuring to know I wasn't the only one who struggled on their first run

[Cdfjay Graduate]

Keep going stay positive