New potato!

[Salad]

So....am about to get off the couch. I am the last person I ever thought would run. What do I need to know, gym or road? Is it gonna kill me at first?

[swanscot Graduate]

Quite a lot of information on the basics you need to know to start this programme on the NHS Choices Couch to 5 K main page

nhs.uk/LiveWell/c25k/Pages/...

It won't kill you at first, but will make you sweat a lot - and maybe swear a little!

Welcome aboard!

[Hidden]

Good decision to start moving! Long time ago I used to go to the gym, but always it lasted for a very short time. Wasted money! Now I prefer to run on the road: always fresh air and I can vary the route. It takes strong will to go out while it is cold, but once done it, the feeling is fantastic.

[thepadre Graduate]

Hi Salad, Road or Gym? Well I suppose it depends if you already belong to a gym or have access to one. I wouldn't take out a gym membership just to run BUT if you do already have that access I think it's worth trying both. Some people love running outdoors whatever the weather, but my own preference to to stay dry whenever possible. I started off doing all my runs outdoors - but that was back in June! Recently I've been using the gym more - mainly 'cos I find it incresingly hard to get out of bed before it's properly light! I think it's probably true that if you're planning to do a lot of 'long' runs (5K +) you're better off outdoors but if you're just starting out I really don't think it matters. But well done for starting, and yes, welcome to the club!

[Oldgirl Graduate]

Its just like this, you can eat salad potato inside or outside just the same as this programme and your name (love it by the way) If you can do both try and mix up your runs maybe 2 a week outside if the weather is good and 1 run inside, or vice versa that way you will get the best of both worlds. Good luck with the running and even if you feel you are almost dying in the first run or two it will get easier I promise.