Top of the world

[debbzi]

Yesterday, I found myself standing on top of Ben Nevis. A few months ago, I wouldn't have thought it possible. I was a heavy smoker who got out of breath walking up a flight of stairs.

Having quit smoking and graduated C25K, I made it to the top of Britain's highest mountain.

I felt a great sense of achievement when I graduated but yesterday I remembered why I wanted to do the programme in the first place.

It's not just an end in itself but makes you fit for other challenges in life.

What a wonderful feeling.

That's me on the left in the picture, quite early in the climb. On the right is my friend Ellen, a lifelong hillwalker whose family's "just one more step" mantra helped me to the top.

[SaCl Graduate]

So inspiring. I really want the fitness I gain from doing this programme to transfer into other parts of my life. Yesterday I went on a long bike ride and was amazed how easy I found it - all thanks to C25k. Well done on the smoking quitting too! I did it a few years back and although I still crave one from time to time have kept off them since then! I know how hard it can be! Great photo too!

[Trixitrin Graduate]

What a sense of achievement! I think it's not just the fitness that is going to help with other parts of your life, it's the mental challenge when you think you can't do something and then you do it. Really well done

[kathycullen]

Very inspiring for someone just starting c25k. Thank you for posting!

[cattery Graduate]

Well done you, you are a great inspiration. Just did week 5 run 3 last night and can hardly believe how far I have come in a short time. It's doing wonders for my confidence and I am sleeping so much better. All great!

[blueboots Graduate]

Debbzi, that's an inspirational blog. Love the picture and the idea of doing the same.

[Deryn61 Graduate]

Woo hoo that is just amazing, thanks for sharing that xxxx Andrea xxx

[Sinbad Graduate]

That is great news and congratulations. Ben Nevis is the reason I started the couch to 5k program, I will be climbing the mountain in June with luck. Hope you keep up the running and contribute to improve.