Finally did it!

[Gaz_W]

Well, it's probably taken me about 20 weeks, but this evening I finally graduated.

I can't quite believe it - I've never been a runner, at school I was always the fat kid wheezing my way round the cross country course, walking most of it and hating every minute.

When I started this programme, I immediately felt at ease with running every other day, and although along the way there were some daunting moments eg. Running continuously for 20mins - it is all manageable and as long as you stick to the plan there should be no problems.

All was going well and I got to W9 but was forced to sit out the next 6 weeks with a groin strain picked up playing 5 a side. I went back to week 7 and built myself up again - which was probably a sensible move.

So tonight was the night, and despite torrential rain all day I went out, ran alongside a river which was about to burst its banks (that kept me moving) and I completed my third 30min run/jog this week - what a feeling.

So now what? I have already signed up for a 10k so need to build up to that, but first I think I'll be treating myself to a new pair of trainers.

Thanks to everyone who contributes to the site, it is really encouraging to read about other people's experiences.

For what it is worth, if anyone is struggling with an injury - I know it is frustrating but make sure you rest, and don't run until you have been injury free for 2 weeks. Returning to exercise too early could make it worse.

Now gimme my badge.....

[suki_007 Graduate]

Such an inspiring blog, many congratulations, especially for having the mental toughness to deal with such a long lay-off in the middle, that's a real achievement. Btw, at least you used to get round the cross-country course, I snuck off round the corner to smoke fags and then waited til the fit kids were coming back and I puffed in in their wake!

[Anniemurph Graduate]

Oh, well done, what an inspiration - congratulations!

[bwings]

Well done! Gives me hope - on week 5 and can't believe that on tuesday I ought to be able to run for 20 mins. Seems beyond unlikely just now!! Enjoy your new trainers

[Bella2021]

Awesome! I just started Week 2 today, despite finishing Week 1 a week ago. Well done on finishing the program, when it would have been so easy to flag it after your injury.

[poulet Graduate]

Well done to you - that's fantastic - especially getting back into it again and not losing your motivation over the injury. Inspiring stuff. All the very best as you head for 10k...

[Emma40 Graduate]

So glad that I read your post Gaz_W, I had got to week 9 and was two runs away from graduating when I hurt my calf, I gave it two weeks and tried again but it wasn't long enough and I hurt it again. I visited the physio and he said there was a slight tear and to leave it for six weeks, I am 3 weeks into that now. I amd doing a bit on the bike and cross trainer in the gym to try and keep the fitness up and I am hoping that I will be able to do the 5k I signed up for at the end of Sept. Reading your blog gives me hope that it is still on the cards. Many many congrats on your achievement especially after the set back.

[stayinbed Graduate in reply to Emma40]

That's tough Emma, hope you're coping with the enforced 'rest'!

[Alex62 Graduate]

Well done, I am a bit like Emma40, got to end of week 8 and developed an ankle injury, rested for a week and tried again, oops bad mistake as now told to rest for 4 - 6 weeks so great to hear that you achieved it....

[stayinbed Graduate in reply to Alex62]

Must be so tough to have to stop when you're in the swing of things. Hope your ankle's better soon!

[Soozz Graduate]

Congratulations, what an inspiring story. You are a real hero to keep on with the programme in spite of your injury, you have incredible will-power. Well done, and good luck with the 10K - your determination with C25K will ensure you get there.

[stayinbed Graduate in reply to Soozz]

I seem to be stalking you Soozz, I've noticed a few times that you've commented on something I'm just about to comment on. Watch round the corners when you're running, I might be there!!!!

[Gridlet Graduate]

Good on you! That's awesome! When is your 10K?