From genuinely thinking I might have to stop just 30 seconds into the programme to doing this is frankly mind (and body) boggling. Josh Clark is a bona fide genius.
About the distance. In a bid to put my focus solely on the minutes, I hadn’t recorded any previous runs. My goal on graduating was only to be as far from the couch as possible, then take it from there. I had no idea I’d overshoot by half a kilometre.
Returning to Amsterdam’s beloved Vondelpark; the scene of the crime of my first puff-filled effort just 9 weeks and 27 runs ago, I found myself with an added sub-ambition.
A landmark both literal and metaphorical.
At the halfway bell of my two previous 30 minute efforts I was finding myself agonisingly close to the famous park gates. I knew that if I picked up the pace a little I’d literally be able to touch that golden gothic V before turning for home. And I did just that with some time to spare.
I knew I’d burned energy on this but it was a symbolic moment on this journey I’ll never forget.
The change of direction brought a surprising headwind that must have helped push me to this mid point achievement. I found myself needing to slow up a fair bit and conserve energy. Thankfully The Chemical Brothers came through with a more ambient chilled number at just the right time. Now my focus had shifted again to nothing more than getting to the end regardless of distance covered.
But at five minutes to go my previous experiences kicked in. Thoughts of how grueling five minutes was in week four and how I’d come through that told me I could raise the pace.
Then, with one final minute of C25K left, I know from how close I’m getting to my starting point at the Groot Melkhuis that this is a chance to run my furthest yet. I kept pushing harder and honestly thought Denise’s voice would never come back in to say it was all over.
It wasn’t pretty, folks. But I love the fact that you just keep on bravely walking and catching your breath and reflecting on what you’ve just done rather than collapsing in a tearful sweaty heap.
The split times looked like they were attached to a yo-yo and I have pushed the outer limits of my determination to get to today. Plus the real test starts now as I try to make this a regular part of my daily life for years, not weeks.
I’ve so much to learn as a runner.
But at least I am one.
Written by
LeeTimesThree
Graduate
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🍏 Congratulations 🥳 👏🙌 🎈 This incredible victory feeling lasts for days. Your report on this final victory run was so inspiring to read! Don’t forget to claim your badge here!
🎉Many Congratulations!!! 🎉 wonderful to hear your process. I’m starting again having had to take almost a year out due to injuries. Inspiring to hear you’re ‘not pretty’ but real story. How did you celebrate?
Thank you and good luck getting back out there. As a celebration I planned this final run meticulously so I’d end near my favourite Nepalese food stand for lunch by the canal.
Many congrats to you x it’s such a mental over physical thing at this stage but “ what the mind believes the body achieves” x very well done and enjoy the buzz it gives u x
Huge congratulations on your achievement. Loved your story. I hope the buzz lasts and I'm sure it will. Graduating nearly 8 weeks ago I've had same feeling, now the challenge is to make running part if everyday life. Staying connected with the support and encouragement of this forum has helped greatly. Continuing to learn through all the wisdom here. Happy running 🏃🏾♀️ ☺️
Absolutely! It wasn’t until around week 4 that I discovered this community and every like, comment or tip I’ve received has helped massively. Definitely plan to stick around, gotta show off that badge! Good on you for 8 weeks as a post-grad.
Building this as a habit will prove helpful as motivation comes & goes - getting out there when you're motivated to do so is a sure sign that a habit has been formed. Consistency is everything!
What a great write up of a super achievement. Many congratulations on completing Cto5.5k! It really is amazing how well the schedule works, I remember thinking in my first week that I might have to throw in the towel too.
I only graduated 3 weeks ago but still run every other day and am having so much fun. Like you I hope to keep running as part of my life and keep far away from the couch. I have decided to join a local running club, do you have one near you? I think it will help to keep focused and motivated.
Very best of luck with your future running adventures!
Thanks so much, I hope to follow hot on your heels and keep this habit. Your posts are inspiring.
There are a couple of really cool and inclusive looking running clubs where I live that I’m keeping tabs on via the socials. It’s another big step to pluck up the courage for joining one but gonna start with Parkrun soon to get used to running amongst others!
I really enjoyed my first 2 parkruns, i highly recommend the experience. Glad to hear you have some friendly running clubs close by. I'm going to my first meeting on Wednesday, I'm excited!
congratulations. I remember that feeling well. I am sure you will keep going because you will be healthier and and you feel great after a run. Do take the post graduation advice though , and that will keep you on the right track.
Thanks. Yes, a run has become something I actually look forward to so long may that continue through the winter months. I’m excited to see where it can lead in a gradual way.
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Couch to 5K Graduate 
Couch to 5k - Graduated!!
Are there any Couch to 5k graduates out there?
Graduated Couch to 5K but not running 5K yet!!
Graduation run done - so it's couch to 4k for me 😀
