Does it really work?

[Kieron1992]

I have just completed week 1 on to week 2 on Monday! Does this really work? Can you really run 5k at the end of it? I'm so unfit. Is it natural to find it hard already haha

[Instructor57 Graduate]

You may or may not run 5k at the end .The purpose of the program is to get you running 3 x 30 minutes on week 9 NOT 5k.

Only around 10% will reach 5k in the 30 minutes, that can come after you graduate

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Yes it works, and no you probably won't run 5k by the end of it. What you will almost certainly be able to do is run continuously for 30 minutes. And that's a real achievement! Keep going, take it slowly and trust the programme. 👍

[Ant50 Graduate]

I was in the same place as you about 20mths or so ago. Could easily have given up after week 1 or 2 as I found it impossible. Stuck with it and I am still running, currently my longest run is 11km without stopping, so yes it really works ! Good luck.

[Hidden]

Kieron1992, the plan aims to get you to a point where you are able to run for 30minutes, yes some people achieve 5k in that time, some don't, but that's down to each individual.

Take a look at the below information all about C25k it's full of great advice that will be a great help to you as you progress.

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done

on getting started.C25k will build your fitness, but you are probably pushing too hard........slow down, this is about stamina, not speed.

Some reach 5k in 30 minutes during the plan, most do not, but you will be well on the way by graduation and so much fitter.

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.

[Rennur Graduate]

Kieron I guess you are 28 years old. I am 57 and nearly 3 stone overweight. Back in September, when I started I was well OVER 3 stone overweight. I graduated almost a month ago. I ran 3.5K at graduation. I have achieved that twice in 5 post graduation runs (my best was just over 3.7K). I will get to 5K by February, but it might mean I have to increase my time to over 40 minutes, which I will do gradually over the next two months (don't think about doing more than the plan states at the moment). I may get quicker by then. You may get to 5K before me if you stick to the plan. There are many who have done this before with underlying health conditions and in their 60s and 70s (and maybe older).

So the answer is yes. It works. Be patient. You will run 30 minutes non stop and maybe 5K by the end if not shortly after.

Trust the plan. But trust yourself more.

[PurpleGran]

I’ve just completed my last run of week 2. Didn’t think I’d manage it. Hope I can manage week three. Good luck for week 2 x