I'm back

[Runningphobe]

I started C25K in 2014 aged 60, having never run before if I could possibly avoid it - including at school. I would rather miss a bus than run for it. I completed the programme, much helped by this forum. I did two 5K "Race for Life" over the next couple of years and have mostly kept up running (on and off) ever since. To be honest, I still don't really enjoy the run, but I really like what it does for me. I feel fitter, healthier - even younger. And I've lost over two stone and two dress sizes.

I've had many gaps, but always come back, and here I am again. Back at Week 5, but so be it. Hello everyone.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome back to the forum and well done on restarting.

If it is still not enjoyable, are you pushing too hard? If you cannot speak aloud clear ungasping sentences as you run, then you are going too fast.

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

Counterintuitively, it is an easy conversational pace running that builds your stamina and endurance, not fast running.

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.

[Over60sRunner Graduate]

Welcome home Runningphobe I'm another that never madly enjoys a run, but I don't hate it either and I love the sense of accomplishment every time I finish one, so I'm a runner for life unless nature stops me

[Newbie59 Graduate]

I feel so lucky that I discovered running in lockdown at the age of 65 and do enjoy it! So I was very sad when I had to stop because of hip pain. I am now redoing C25k but taking it very slowly and carefully