Beginning Runner

[Runner-111]

Hi! I’m new to Healthunlocked.com which I found when I joined “Couch to 5K”. I’ll need encouragement as I’ve never done any running just a lot of walking. I hope to meet some of you with similar interests.

Can’t wait to meet some new friends on this website.

[nowster Graduate]

Welcome!

[Runner-111 in reply to nowster]

Thanks. I’m looking forward to a new me!!

[NewBeginner1]

Hi me too, just completed run 1 of week 1 today 👍

[Runner-111 in reply to NewBeginner1]

Looks like we are close to the same spot! I’ll start my first tomorrow.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum.

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.

[Runner-111 in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for the great info. I will read it often!

[Smokeys-mum]

I'm a beginner too, I've just completed my second of week 1. Just take it steady!😀

[Runner-111 in reply to Smokeys-mum]

Thanks for the good advice! I will start my first tomorrow.

[newbie-nick Graduate]

What ho! It may be an oft-repeated mantra but getting out of the door and doing the first run IS the hardest part. If you have managed that, you have shown the level of grit and determination to make it to the end.A few things - it isn't a race. Go S L O W L Y. If you need to repeat weeks, do so. One lady posted on here that with repeated weeks etc she had graduated after 29 weeks!

Run at a pace where you can/could chat to someone else as you run.

Listen to your body.

Remember, we are all here to support and encourage you at any time.

Ask any question - if you think that it is a 'silly' or basic one. If you are wondering a bout it, others will be too, and it is you who have been courageous enough to ask.

Find the best time of day to run that suits you - some love the morning, others the evening.

When you can, get a GAIT ANALYSIS done. At the very least do a wet foot test - Google it - and try lots and lots of running shoes on. These are the only remotely costly piece of running equipment, and last year's models are just as good. and are much cheaper than this years.

To put things into perspective - a really, really good pair of running shoes would cost as much as a smoker spends on cigarettes in a fortnight if they had a 20-a-day habit.

Now, above all, GO SLOWLY. Don't rush at it and enjoy it.

[Runner-111 in reply to newbie-nick]

Thanks, Nick. I appreciate your input. I did my first run this morning and am feeling so pleased with myself. I am determined to get through the program even if it takes me 29 weeks.

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

If you like walking, then that's a great start and will give you a good baseline from which to move forward from ... literally!

[Runner-111 in reply to John_W]

Thanks, John. I usually walk about 4 to 5 miles a day so yes, I do like walking! Was happy to do my first run this morning!

[KitkaterinaB Graduate]

I’m new here too and will be doing my 3rd week 1 run today. I’m going nice and steady and enjoying it so far.

[Runner-111 in reply to KitkaterinaB]

Thanks for your note. I went nice and steady this first morning. Looking forward to the next run!

[Rwran18 Graduate]

Welcome to the C25K family where you will find plenty of encouragement, advice and support. Starting your ‘journey’ with C25K will be the best decision you have made so far this year. Good and enjoy 🏃‍♀️☺️

[Runner-111 in reply to Rwran18]

Thanks for your note. Journey started today and I am very enthusiastic!