What about life AFTER C25K?

[mrrun]

I can't stress the importance of Couch to 5K enough, both on physical and mental levels. It could be a complete game changer in the lives of those who have completed it.

Motivation to get started is triggered by many reasons, all valid. The sense of achievement as we progress will never be forgotten and the final graduation triumph stays with us forever.

But what are your plans once the program has been completed?

Before I started I was a chain smoking dishevelled geezer passing as a cheap excuse for something that used to be a fit human. My idea was to complete the program by any means necessary. I was battling bad injuries and doubts, questioning whether this whole thing made any sense for a 52 year old.

How little did I know. Not only was the program recreating me as an able human again, I carried on the journey, pursued an interest in long distance running, became a running blogger and began to develop my own sports drink. And throughout the process I received continuous encouragement and support from this unique forum.

So, how and where do you see yourself after C25K? I assure you it can definitely take you to a very good place.

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

Long runs short runs hilly runs flat runs sunny runs and yes snowy runs, that’s where it’s got me and although slow running is awesome

[mrrun Graduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

Sounds like a plan to me! 😀

[PlasticUnitedFan Graduate]

Awesome mrrun, I am that 53 yr old geezer still smoking and trying to become a human being again. Completed week 2 but still smoking. I can’t tell you how encouraging it is reading your post. Thanks

[mrrun Graduate in reply to PlasticUnitedFan]

Thank you! Yeah, this stands out as one of THE best decisions I ever made. And as for smoking, I got some infection, got blue lighted to A&E and thought, that's it, smoking no more. What that did to my cardio as a reward has been a miracle. Only regret? Should've done all of it before.

[Couchphoenix Graduate]

Working on increasing distance with the aim to complete a half marathon, I’ve managed 10 miles twice so not too far off. When you graduate you feel a bit lost as the structure of C25k is gone, so you need to look to set yourself your own goals and challenges. I thought I might lose my enthusiasm, but it’s still there. I love a bit of running bling albeit virtual these days so I like to throw in the occasional race too, knowing your in a race gives you that extra push. C25k has definitely been life changing for me.👍🏅🏃‍♂️

[mrrun Graduate in reply to Couchphoenix]

You're just a parkrun distance away from HM. Have you tried any programs? Structured guide is always helpful and it gives you perfect guidance over a period of time. When you start marathon training you'll run a HM nearly every weekend, so better get ready!

I used Hal Higdon's programs for all my distances - from faster 5K and 10K to ultra marathon. You can check them out on his website.

[Couchphoenix Graduate in reply to mrrun]

Thanks mrrun I’ll take a look, I’ve not heard of Hal Higdon programs 👍

[mrrun Graduate in reply to Couchphoenix]

A venerable runner, a veteran of 111 marathons. He's learned a few tricks. 😉

[Indielass00 Graduate]

For me I want to continue to build on my fitness levels. Run for longer, times are irrelevant to me. If I do a 5K or 10L that’s an achievement in itself, doesn’t matter how long it takes me.Mental health wise it would be good to be medicine free again with just fitness giving me the boost of serotonin I need. But if I continue to need both that’s fine.

I also have a target to lose 4 to 4 and a half stone so have changed my eating and drink habits. Will be great to see the difference in my running as my tummy goes down! ☺️

[mrrun Graduate in reply to Indielass00]

That's the key. Take your time and gradually, gently increase your distances in your own time. Don't push yourself. The sense of achievement will be your massive booster throughout the journey.