When does running become fun?!: Hi. As a total... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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When does running become fun?!

cazcazgbr profile image
10 Replies

Hi. As a total non-runner, I'm proud of myself to have reached W4R2 but I'm just curious as to when you actually start enjoying running! I really don't enjoy the actual run but do have a huge sense of achievement afterwards (and sore bits everywhere!). Does it ever become something to look forward to as I'd love to carry on (presuming I make it to Graduation!).

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cazcazgbr profile image
cazcazgbr
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10 Replies
motherduckling profile image
motherducklingGraduate

For me, the first run I actually enjoyed while running it was when I had moved on to the 10K magic plan, and was doing my 9K run. And I have no idea why! Even now it is very hit and miss, I very rarely actually look forward to a run, but I know that the feeling of accomplishment afterwards is well worth it!

spiky64 profile image
spiky64Graduate in reply to motherduckling

That reply could have been written by me - my experience has been exactly the same! I started running for the first time around the end of March, and it's only been fairly recently that I have started to enjoy some of the runs, but the sense of achievement does make it worthwhile!

Roxdog profile image
RoxdogGraduate

Well done for getting to week 4! I think that the sense of achievement you get from the run can become addictive and that will carry you through the programme. Try to relax while you're running - when you get to the longer runs you have time to settle in, get a slow steady rhythm going and that's when it starts to feel more enjoyable. The programme is undoubtedly a challenge, although a good one! Don't worry, you will start to enjoy it - just experience every run as it comes. Some are tougher than others, but keep remembering the glow you have afterwards!

cazcazgbr profile image
cazcazgbr in reply to Roxdog

Ha ha... I'm certainly glowing after a run! Better not run at night during this time of year or they might pick me up and put me on top of town Christmas tree 🎄!

cazcazgbr profile image
cazcazgbr

On another note... is it normal to gain weight when you start running? I am but don't think I'm eating more. Some say muscle ways more than fat but I'm not entirely convinced and also I can't have built up that much muscle after 11 runs!

John_W profile image
John_WGraduateAmbassador in reply to cazcazgbr

Muscle DOES weight more than fat.

And... running for *you* may never be 'fun' - there's a possibility that running may not be your thing. But is important to have a thing and finding out what that is, is the fun part.

See how you get on with C25K and then assess .... you never know!

cazcazgbr profile image
cazcazgbr in reply to John_W

I'm really hoping it is for me as it is easy to fit in around work and children. Joining a gyms etc requires more time and organisation. At least I can go out and run while the rest of the family are having breakfast and then start my day! Fingers crossed :-)

John_W profile image
John_WGraduateAmbassador in reply to cazcazgbr

I should add... I started notice differences in how my legs felt in Week 4... nearly 6 years ago.

3500 miles later...

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

Slowing down to the recommended easy conversational pace makes it more achievable and for most, more enjoyable.

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.

TotalNewbie1 profile image
TotalNewbie1Graduate

I really don’t know about this one. I had to really push myself to do C25K. Anyone who knew me said I would give up by w3. Once I achieved it the thought of going back to the excruciating pain of starting again has made me continue. Now fast forward - there are days when I spend an hour thinking of why I shouldn’t go but I don the leggings and I get excited to go out. Can’t imagine not running now and the sense of achievement is always satisfying (apart from the failed runs). I love being outside, seeing the world go by, saying hello to fellow runners (usually as they sprint past me) so as I type this I think yes it is fun and quite addictive.

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