Finished w9r3 :D (formerly known as SmokeyAli)

[SilkySilk]

Well didn't know if this day would come, I just finished week9 run3 and I feel great!

It's been a fair bit longer than 9 weeks due to some stopping and starting with other things in my life going on, but I'm thrilled to have actually made it.

To be honest part of me thought I would give up and never get to my goal, but I've been surprised that every time I've stopped for a little while the day has come that I've just felt like running again, despite having to repeat a few of the runs to catch up. I'm determined to keep this as part of my lifestyle, I think knowing I can restart after distractions has boosted my confidence, and I quit smoking just before starting so it's my new replacement habit

I am now going to aim at trying to pick up my speed a little, and get to the point where the run feels comfortable, as I did struggle. Also not sure if i reached an official 5k, will have to investigate, I'm happy with the achievement regardless.

.

To anyone who has worried over dropping the routine of their running, take it from me you can always pick it up again and carry on, it's never been too long. Just start again at the level you feel comfortable with, don't think of it as going backwards, every run is forwards!

[shelleymcb Graduate]

congratulations doesnt matter if you had to stop & start this proves that running is definately for you & how determined you are

hope you are going to treat yourself to something nice

well done again. shelley x

[blueboots Graduate]

Congratulations on completing and also on quitting the smoking.

[Beckipeg]

Well done! That's so encouraging. Keep running forwards!

[TJFlute]

To quit smoking and take up running: both amazing achievements in a relatively short space of time, so a massive Well Done!

[Hidden]

Well done on graduating and quitting smoking, your health must be so much better now.

[SaCl Graduate]

Well done on quitting smoking! I know from doing that myself that that takes MASSIVE willpower - let alone having the determination to take up something new and build a new routine! Yay you! And thanks for the comforting comments about taking it up after a break, good to know it can be done!

[handstand Graduate]

Well done on both accomplishments!

[Allybally Graduate]

Well done - on both counts! What an achievement!