W9R3 done - I don't feel like a graduate - but I have learned a lot

[ifnotnow]

So, this morning I completed my final run for C25K, and odd as it sounds, I don't feel like a graduate. This is mainly because a few days away, combined with some terrible headaches, meant it has been almost a week since W9R2 - so I feel like I would be cheating to claim my graduate badge now, as I didn't do all the runs in one week. I'm still really happy that I completed the run (the gremlin was definitely there on my shoulder!), but I want to wait another week (during which I will run for 30 mins three times, using my own music now, yay!) before I claim my long-awaited badge. I can't wait!

As so many people have said, the C25K has had such a positive effect on my life - I am a calmer, happier person, and I've lost inches (if not pounds - yet ). I was always the fat little kid in the corner at school, and I've carried that image with me through my teens and twenties. Now, at 34, I feel I might have found something which I can enjoy doing, and which will finally help me to shed my angst about fitness and body image. It's time to unzip the fat suit and let the real me come out.

I cannot over-emphasize how much this forum has helped - reading other people's stories and advice has been so inspirational. I look forward to reading more in the future too. Thanks everyone

[KTMACNESS Graduate]

I can't even fathom the idea of running 25k... From a fellow little fat kid at school, congratulations

[jomcc4 Graduate]

Well done, you ARE a graduate, even if you don't feel you deserve it. I love the " unzip the fatsuit" expression and can truly relate to it. I actually went out in a pair of shorts today for the 1st since......... I actually can't remember. X

[beatasthma]

You did it! I don't think it's a cheat....think back to week 1 and now you can run 30 mins continuously and think it's not enough...amazing!!! Well done and good luck with post-grad running

[welshwoman56 Graduate]

Well done. You are definitely a graduate and you've worked hard for that badge. You can run for 30 minutes non stop so be proud of your achievements and send a message to JR21 for your graduation badge. I can't wait to see mine, I expected it to be there as soon as I sent the message.......Maybe today.

[Anniemurph Graduate]

Oh, fantastic - well done! Definitely a graduate, though - get that badge

[katrunkles Graduate]

You've done it! You deserve that badge! Well done - I am three runs away, and can't wait.

[ifnotnow Graduate]

Thanks for the supportive comments - and welshwoman56, I can see your badge