First time runner

[Sojac]

If anyone had told me I would be able to run 5k 9 weeks ago I would have laughed and never believed them. But guess what? I have just completed week 9 run 1 !!! I remember week 1 run 1 when I couldn't manage a minute without feeling like I was having a near death experience and kept stopping at about 50 seconds but I persevered. It is not easy and I thought doing the same runs may make it easier....it doesn't!! I am still in shock that I managed 5k. All my runs have been at home on a treadmill as I look purple at the end of the run, maybe one day I may venture outside to run if I get a bit less self conscious but either way I will continue and try the new app beyond nhs 5k when I have finished my 2 other runs this week.

[MoaningMyrtle24 Graduate]

waw well done you, you should be feeling really proud of yourself!

I’ve done the programme a few times, but just done wk8r2 this morning and also feeling chuffed today - although I am no where near running 5k, but I’m ok with that 😀 I actually ordered a new garmin watch last night so I can see what distance I’ll be getting to next week.

[Sojac Graduate in reply to MoaningMyrtle24]

If you are week 8 you only have 1 week to go. Push through that barrier, you can do it!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to MoaningMyrtle24]

Distance is no issue... just the 30 minute runs are enough That is all you need to aim for

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Well done you... slow and steady, as you go and do work , maybe towards that outdoor running?

Believe me, that so many folk gave felt like you, but I can tell you, no-one will be looking at you, or if they are , it is usually with envy, The really wish it was themselves doing what you are doing.

Folk are so wrapped up in their own lives that they don't often, give runners a second glance. I was the Original grey snail... unobtrusive and all in grey gear,,, not now... I am, re-christened by a forum friend, the golden snail and I am out there, proud of my running, enjoying every single sensation of this wonderful world int he brightest gear ever! And I am 74!

YOU are doing wonderfully...time to think about taking that success out and sharing the joy.

You may find that out there, with different surfaces and locations to run in and on, your running takes on new relaxed feel and does feel different, at first, and then you find that there is so much to see out there, you forget any struggle, and just run easier

Looking forward to your posts!

[Wavy-chick28 Graduate]

Well done you, but come outside it’s fun 🌳💚

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

Massive congratulations for all you’ve achieved! You’ve done brilliantly.

You’re absolutely not alone in feeling a bit worried about going outside. If you can get over the nerves, you might be pleasantly surprised. It does open up a lot more options for running so it’s a transition worth making if you want to.

Running outdoors is a bit of a different beast-it can take a bit of adjustment. There’s pace, weather, terrain, route planning, getting lost etc to think about! It’s worth remembering that if you find it harder to start with - that’s entirely normal and it’ll pass as you get used to it. Some people find going back a few weeks in the programme helpful to start with. That’s not a step back-it’s just a step in a new direction. It’s up to you though and there’s no right or wrong way forward. There’s a useful article here…

womensrunning.co.uk/trainin...

Good luck! Can’t wait to hear how you get on!

[Fionamags Graduate]

Well done on hitting 5k in 30 minutes - that is amazing!!!! It takes me quite a bit longer than that.

Like others say, try the outdoors - you are really missing out on varied terrain and great experiences. I am 65 and inspired by someone on here recently (sorry, I don’t remember who it was - Jools perhaps???) I now wear shorts in warm weather. I look absolutely gruesome and in the words of the former poster “I don’t give a monkeys”. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[Madwife60 Graduate]

well done I shouldn’t worry about anyone seeing you outside - I’ve discovered you are pretty much invisible so just do your own thing

[Mummycav Administrator Graduate]

absolutely fantastic…I love this programme and the way it takes you by surprise!! You have come such a long way & we’re all happy for you! Congratulations on this excellent, life changing achievement

[VS1975 Graduate]

well done & congratulations 🥳

[Keayma]

Well done for persevering.

[drl212 Graduate]

That's really terrific! Let us know about your next runs!!

I've been exclusively an outside runner and have to say I do love it and care not a whit about what I look like. I've enjoyed bundling up in February and buying new runnning shirts and shorts for summer.

The important thing is to do it your way and what is comfortable for you but I will add to the chorus of give an outdoors run a try.