Graduated Couch 2 5k Yesterday

[KingKongGroover]

Yesterday I completed Couch 2 5k, with the final 30 minute run! Very emotional about it and the journey I had been on.

There have been so many highlights from my time running. These include:-

- The bemused look from a neighbour who I ran past on my first run.

- The joy I experienced on my 4th run, which was Week 1 run 3 again, as I had COVID and thought I lost my ability. I didn't.

- The run in London where I ran along the South Bank of London on a gorgeous Friday evening.

- The first time I overtook somebody in Mile End Park in London. Granted she was 75 and looked knackered but I did it!

- My first Week 4 run, which saw me run along Dusseldorf's riverfront. It was a tough run.

- My first failure, the Week 4 run 2, in Berlin, where I just couldn't run up a tiny hill and a chihuahua ran in front of me, causing me to stop. I nearly cried.

- Week 5 Run 3, and the joy I experience when I finished it. It's a step up that one - a full 20 minutes running!

- Smashing my phone on a run, meaning I had to run alone with my thoughts. Not good. Turns out I moan a lot when running.

- My first Parkrun, where I set a goal to run under 45 minutes by the end of 2024.

- My second Parkrun two weeks later, where I ran it in 39:39.

- Learning about Zone 2 running which has really helped me. A more efficient fat burning style of running, with less effort, who knew!?!?!

- And telling a kid I couldn't get his ball back he hoofed over the school fence, because I was on a good pace (I'm not too proud of this one).

Not sure what to do now. I guess continue with the Beyond Couch 2 5k Runs. I've got a Parkrun for next weekend. But I'm treating myself to a sports massage for my calf as well, was tight for the last couple of runs so wanted to get somebody to look at it.

I couldn't complete the first run, and now I can run 30 minutes relatively comfortably. You can and will get there.

Also, dropped around 1 and a half stone

[Madwife60 Graduate]

Yea many congratulations. Such an achievement- keep on going my friend. My little 30 minute jaunts each week have changed me both physically and mentally ( a whole hour and a half to myself) and that’s all the motivation I need to keep going. Still can’t do a 5k in 30 mins but I’ve stopped worrying about that. Your goals are so personal so set them to your needs and enjoy the rides

[Flaraflarkin Graduate]

Love your reflections! Congratulations on your Graduation 🎓 👏 🏃🦋

[Christrfc Graduate]

Nice reflection on your journey. Congratulations on completing C25K, it’s a great programme. I hope you keep going, maybe doing Parkrun and a couple of outings midweek, or starting to build for something longer. In the meantime enjoy basking in the glory of your achievement 😁

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Huge well done to you.... keep going with this and keep enjoying.

Once you have got that gradate badge,,,, yes, time to go get it... ! then head over to see what is happening on Bridge to 10K... MissUnderstanding will be delighted to see you and there are loads of ideas and huge support over there as you move on!

healthunlocked.com/bridgeto...

[Annieapple Administrator Graduate]

🍏 congratulations 🙌 big celebrations I am sure! Such an incredible feeling!

Do claim your graduation badge here & read up some further information about what next?

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[SmoothieQueen63]

inspirational words. Well done! I’m on w4 run 2 so nearly half way and loving it so far.

[hamit Graduate]

Well Done 👍

[00marks Graduate]

Congratulations on completing C25K!

[VS1975 Graduate]

Well done, some great memories. Had to chuckle at not stopping for the ball one. I’d have done the same too.

Would love to see your neighbours face now.

Congratulations, you’re a runner 🥳

[HorsePlay Graduate]

Well done, congratulations! And for managing parkruns too! Loved your post.

[drl212 Graduate]

How wonderful to have that list of highlights - both good and not so...

When I first stated out, I wondered what looks I would get from the folks in the office park looking out at the guy running slower than he could walk...

Congratulations!!! I'm a great fan of parkrun, too! I've run just a couple but have been volunteering every week since ending up on the injury couch!

All the best and keep us posted on your new adventures...