Hello!

I only joined this community a short while ago - I wish I'd done so a lot sooner! I did a bit of running about 16 years ago in an effort to lose weight for my wedding - it worked, but two preganacies followed in swift succession and with young children to look after, my own health and fitness took second place. And then, three years ago, my youngest daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes - I decided to raise money for charity in a mad sort of way, so I signed up for a 5k obstacle dash, complete with mud! So, I joined a gym and started walking on the tread mill. Gradually I got a bit faster, but it always bothered me that I was paying £5 for going for which was, essentially, a walk! By chance, I stumbled upon C25K and started following the programme, (I didn't download the podcasts - personally I don't like the idea of walking/running with headphones on, I like to hear what's going on around me), at this time I was still using the treadmill. Then one day...after reading a few blog posts for encouragement....I decided to take the plunge and took a walk/run OUTSIDE! I was so nervous, but with the words of several blog posts echoing in my ears, encouraging me to persevere - I did it! Unfortunately the 5k event was cancelled, so I went for a muddy run instead through our local country park and managed to bag a very hilly 5k in a little under an hour. Feeling proud of myself, I did something very mad indeed - I signed up for the Hastings Half Marathon in March. Inspired by C25K to share my experiences, I told my best friend all about it, (she'd noticed I'd lost weight and that I seemed happier and healthier), now she too has taken up running, as has my husband! Now all three of us are looking forward to taking part in the Hastings Half Marathon next year. Wish us luck!