Need to be an example to my children.

[Babaitai]

How hard it to get into a routine?

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate]

Welcome to the forum! It’s a difficult question to answer because we’ve all got different things that challenge us in our lives. Personally, I found it fine because of the way my work is set up and what other commitments I have on now. At other times of life, it would have been easier or harder. I’d take a look at what you’ve got on and try and work out some realistic that would work for you to run.

What’s your motivation for starting couch to 5k in particular? I’m sure your kids will benefit from having a good role model, but have you thought about the good things you’ll be giving to yourself by starting running? That could help get you out of the door when it gets tough.

There’s a brilliant little guide to the programme here with lots of helpful hints and tips.  Well worth a read.  Most important is keeping it slow and steady at a pace where you can talk in full sentences without gasping.  Most of us go too fast! Really good luck and do come back with how you’re getting on or any questions.

healthunlocked.com/couchto5....

[Cmoi Graduate]

Hi Babaitai , MissUnderstanding has already given you excellent advice in her post.

Regarding getting into a routine: having fixed run days during C25K suits many, probably most, people. However, it wouldn't have worked for me. I didn't use that as an excuse not to complete the programme though, I just ran on those days when it was possible (NB always taking at least one rest day between run days) and didn't stress about which days those were.

Also, it's admirable to want to be an example to your children, but I'd say the most important reason to do C25K is for you. Enjoy C25K!

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate in reply to Cmoi]

Absolutely agree about the fixed run days-I’ve got a bad habit of actively rebelling against plans like that, even as a grown up. I’ve so far always avoided any training plan that has specific days of the week linked with particular runs for that very reason! I know it really works for others. I like to sit down and look at my free time is so I know roughly how the runs could fit into the week. For example, if Wednesday is a write off I’d try to fit in a run early in the week, one later in the week and one one on a weekend. I definitely had some weeks which lasted longer than seven days!

[Cmoi Graduate in reply to MissUnderstanding]

I’ve got a bad habit of actively rebelling against plans like that, even as a grown up. You and me both! There again, surely as adults we should be able to make decisions about managing our time and schedules? Your approach is spot-on!

[GoogleMe Graduate]

I guess you just keep doing it until you no longer have to think about doing it (there will be lots of things in your life that you do as routine). The thing about C25K is that you absolutely must not do it on consecutive days, you need that break from high impact exercise to be ready for the next session and keep it all sustainable.