Hi All!
I'm new here, and on week six of Couch to 5K. I've been running on the spot at home, because I can't face the cold. I know that this makes me much more likely to get the sessions done, since it's just all round easier and more convenient. What do others think of this option?
Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.
Running on the spot will develop your cardio fitness and to a degree build your muscles, but will not really turn you into a runner.
Many people are unsure about heading outdoors and feel self conscious, but it really is much healthier, providing fresh air, vitamin D and sensory stimuli.
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.
Yes! Thanks for your reply. I do fell self conscious outside. It’s only on examining my feelings that I realise that.
Try outside and you will be amazed that nobody pays any attention to you, as stated in the guide.
Your feelings are extremely common but soon overcome...........what does it matter what others think?
That’s right... and I’d like to feel I could run outside, even if I don’t always choose to. I must try it.
What's you goal ultimately?
How cold is it where you are? Do you suffer from Raynaud's disease?
Hi! Thanks for your reply! No - there’s no medical issue, luckily. My first goal is to use running to lift my mood. I find running inside very effective for this. Running outside might be even more so - but it would definitely be something I would avoid more. My secondary goal is to use running, in conjunction with a Healthy restricted calorie diet, to lose weight - I’m not very large but I do have a few extra pounds.
It sounds like great exercise but I don't think it will develop your running hips and core the same as running outdoors. What seems cold when you're sitting indoors turns out to be quite warm when your heart is pumping out on the roads. I believe the rule of thumb is to dress for 10 degrees warmer than it really is. Why not give it a go!
Good luck 👍
The fresh air, nature and light will really help with lifting your mood in the dark months
There is nothing like it; trust me!
Thanks for your reply! Yes... and my tendency is to feel like staying up all night and sleeping all morning, and I’ve heard getting out into the light really helps with that.
Don't be afraid of going out, I did week 1 runs 1 & 2 around my garden then my wife joined me on run 3 and we went to the local park after work, I was devastated to find a group of teenagers hanging around there, but other than the odd glance they paid me no attention. so w3r3 today and the park is now the regular route. biggest fear was last Friday when I gate-crashed youth football training with dozens of parents watching. I just shuffled my way around the pitches and, guess what, it was fine!
Go do it 
Week almost-3, and a spot of marshalling
Spot the Difference
Run run run run running 🤗
To run or not to run?
