71and counting

[Brichar71]

Hi everyone Just wondering if at 71i am a bit old to start running has anyone else of my age started this program. I have never done any running ever!🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[nowster Graduate]

In a word, no. You're not too old.

A few weeks ago we had someone in their mid 80s graduate C25K.

[rosie2shoes Graduate]

Age is not a barrier,I am a little younger,66 and after completing C25K ,I now run for fun..sometimes 5k sometimes just 2 and I feel so much better for it.My advice would be to take it easy,as I progressed I took 2 or 3 rest days. Run at a pace that is comfortable..surprising how quickly your pace will speed up..and if it doesn't you are still out there running.Go for it 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[LottieMW Graduate]

Definitely not! Plenty of older runners here 😊 I started the day after my 65th birthday 😄

Have you done any exercise like walking?

Before you start read the Pinned posts...especially “how to run C25k”...very important to warm up and cool down properly with the different types of stretches. Have a look at “Japanese Slow Jogging”

m.youtube.com/watch?ebc=ANy...

A lot of people fit the 3 runs into one week...but listen to your body...you may need two or more recovery/rest days between runs. Have a look at the Strength and Flex forum for ideas for your recovery days...or you can walk, do yoga or Pilates, cycle, swim...anything but run as your body needs to repair itself ready for the next run 😄

You can do it! Go for it!

[Jools2020 Graduate]

No! There are many older runners here. I’m almost 67 and started in May, graduating in July. I have never previously done any running at all. A couple of weeks ago I went on my second 10 mile run.

If there are no medical reasons why you shouldn’t run, go for it! Take it slowly, it’s meant to be a slow jog, and before you know it, you’ll be addicted, replacing all your clothes with Lycra and constantly looking at running routes! There’s a great deal of support on this forum for you to share experiences with and make new virtual friends. Good luck 👍

[goldfinch49]

Hi, I've just joined. Started couch to 5k in the gym - got to week 7 then covid struck. After a couple of months of not a lot of exercise I decided to try going outside, which is going well (4 weeks ago), If you're unsure you could get a check up with your gp. I don't run fast, I jog at my own pace and it's great outside. Don't go out in the rain though!

Forgot to say I'm 72 in January and had never done any running,

Good luck,

[PMcL1966 Graduate]

My mother and stepfather are both 73 and both keen runners. They started a little younger than you (68) but they regularly run over 5k a few times a week. My mother sometimes runs in the morning and evening. So no you’re not too old.

[Brichar71]

Thank you all for the replies you have given me the encouragement I need. Now just need to find a nice quiet time on the streets.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and in it you will find mentioned an 83 year old graduate.

It also includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.