New to the whole running thing...!

[jazz15c]

After YEARS of doing anything but running in a bid to increase my general fitness levels and shed some weight, I decided that the time was right to start running. I hate running, I've always seen it as such a dull, pointless activity.

I lost a lot of weight about 4 years back (from 18 stone 6lbs to 13st 3lbs) just by eating less and healthier, accompanied by sitting on an exercise bike in front of Sky TV for 30 mins, 5 times per week. The last time I weighed myself (about 6 weeks ago) I was 14st 2lbs. I gave myself a goal to increase my general fitness levels and get down to 13st 7lbs, preferably before Christmas.

I play football (6aside) on a Monday night, and football training on a Tuesday, so despite carrying a few extra pounds, consider myself reasonably active.

Something finally clicked in my head last Thursday, the determination levels went up a notch or two...and before I knew it I was handing over £50 for some running shoes (which are like slippers by the way...just gorgeous). I also downloaded the Nike+ iPhone GPS app and made a running playlist full of loud upbeat songs...I was ready.

Last Thursday was my first ever run. EVER. I gave myself a realistic goal of running for 30 minutes, and I was allowed to stop once, if needed. I didn't stop. I have never been so proud of myself. I covered 2.8 miles.

I repeated the run last Saturday, covering minimally more distance.

Last night I played football and ran home after, which was 3.3 miles (5.3k), and took 38 mins.

I realise I'm not breaking any records or anything, but I'm so so proud of myself...this is something I never thought I'd be bothered to do. I feel better already, I hate Tuesday's, but today I've felt upbeat and spritely all day.

I've earmarked the Plymouth 10k which takes place in November 2013 as a realistic goal to aim for.

I look forward to looking around this site and seeing how everyone is doing and interacting with a few people.

[gdeann Graduate]

Never ran before? You are doing awesome! It took me 9 weeks of working the C25K program to build up to a 30 minute mark. I definitely see a 10K in your future! Wishing you continued success!

[jazz15c Graduate]

I've ran before, but like I said, it was after a football, so wasn't pure running as such.

Thanks so much, I'm bloody happy, definitely helps your mood too for sure.

[oona Graduate]

Wow, jazz, what a result! If you do need any help to get your distance up or time down then check out the C25k+ podcasts. There's lots of encouragement and advice on this forum as well as inspirational stories that'll keep you in the zone. Keep us posted on your progress!

[jazz15c Graduate]

Thanks Oona, I will definitely check out the C25k+ podcasts which should hopefully help me gradually increase my distance over the next year for the Plymouth 10k.

This forum is utterly superb, everyone is so supportive, friendly and helpful. :o)

Having a night off tonight, got up at 2am last night and struggled to climb the stairs...! Time for a rest.