Not on track yet!

[Teddymummy]

I started the programme two weeks ago now but have not even completed week one yet.

The first week I did the first run but then some personal issues came up and I didn't have chance to do the second run so I decided to try again the next week.

I went out as planned on the Monday, but then on Wednesday I had to take my baby to an appointment and ended up not having time to run afterwards, and then again I missed the rest of the week as he was poorly.

This week I've come down with my son's germs and so haven't been out, and I'm also worried about the area I've been running in as I'm always worried I'm going to be mugged for my iphone.

I really want to join a gym and get started with the programme on a treadmill as I think I'll find fewer excuses to avoid going running if I'm not worried about my own safety. I don't drive due to health reasons and I know I wouldn't be motivated to walk across town before I even started my run.

I just feel like I'm never going to get going and it's such a shame as I was on a real high after the first run.

I need to be a bit firmer with myself, but I'm going to see if I can find some funds somewhere to make me feel a bit safer.

[Rose885 Graduate]

Do you have any friends that might be interested in going out running with you? You might feel safer if you have someone with you and having someone to help keep you motivated. Or even try to find out if there's any running groups near you. I know its difficult to find time but it's only 30-40mins of your day and its really worth it.

The gym might be an option but if its not easily accessible to you and you have to spend time travelling to it then I think you are more likely to make excuses or not find the time to go.

Defiantly be firmer with yourself, this is about your health and doing something good for yourself and that's important. Good luck!

[Teddymummy in reply to Rose885]

Have you ever tried running with anyone? How did you find it? I'm a bit embarrassed to be seen puffing and panting and going bright red!

There are two gyms really close to me and I'd be excited to go, it's just money. I'm thinking of seeing if I can get a GP referral though.

[TJFlute]

Being a mum of four I can really sympathise with you and sometimes it does mean that your time is taken up with looking after the children until they're better. But spring is here and the bugs will stay away and the days will get longer!

The important thing is that you've made the big step of starting and that's brilliant and more than most people ever do!

It doesn't matter how many times you re-do weeks (even week one) because every step you take is a step in the right direction and you will feel so much better for it.

Is there any chance of getting a friend to join you so that you feel safe outside? (Even if they just sit on a bench somewhere and wait for you!)

Have you spoken to your GP, who might be able to refer you to the gym so that it doesn't cost an arm and a leg?

With the support on here I am sure we can help you work out a way to conquer this!

[Teddymummy in reply to TJFlute]

Thanks for your reply. I just feel like a quitter! But I don't want to quit so I'll try to stop thinking of it that way. I had heard about the GP referrals but I don't really know how to go about it - it seems a bit cheeky to make an appointment and ask for a gym membership! I'm going to look into it though. There are two gyms within three minutes of my house and I'd LOVE to use one.

[Bxster Graduate]

hi there, I'm wondering if you know of a sure start children's centre or similar in your town? if there is one there should be some great people there who could help you work out the logistics of finding time for yourself to do this. Children's centre's sometimes have creche groups where your little one could be looked after for the short time while you did your runs, and there may be other mums they know about that may like to join you

Keep us posted on how you are doing

[Teddymummy in reply to Bxster]

There is a SureStart centre not far from here and I used it a lot while my baby was smaller, but I haven't been in a while. That's something I hadn't thought of so thank you