On 14th April 2012 I undertook my first 30 minute run without Laura encouraging me. And now......

I run 4 times a week in all weathers and absolutely love it. And this from a woman with an inherited large chest (russian ancestry) and who, when in the Army, hated running.

But now with a very firm sports bra and some lovely red Nike ultraglide shoes I look forward to going out for a run.

At 64 I have no need to undertake 10k runs. I can run 5k in under 30 minutes and am quite happy running for 30 minutes 4 times a week in the winter months and a bit longer in the summer.

I love the solitude. Just me, my music and the wildlife. Bliss.

For all of you just starting out keep with it it is well worth it. The bonus is that I can eat exactly what I like and still lose inches. Bliss.

[LMS2110 Graduate]

Happy anniversary and thanks! I'm approaching 62 and am getting to the end of W7. (Though have taken rather more weeks to get to this point). I can't claim Russian ancestors, I'm just a big girl! Bought a powerfully strong sports bra around week 2 and most of my running gear was L or XL. Am not yet losing ounces, but shape has changed and diminished - am thrilled. Added bonus is that asthmatic lungs are betting much stronger! Am now running 25 + minutes with my own music and loving it. Planning to graduate soon and fully intend to run regularly, enjoy the outdoors and stay fit for my retirement.

All the best to you, keep encouraging new runners to stick with it - I'm so glad I did Linda x

[LMS2110 Graduate]

Oooooooops lungs are Getting much stronger!

[greenlegs Graduate]

Very inspiring to read both of these stories. Brilliant that a year after graduating you are still running regularly - and even more importantly, enjoying it too!

It's also really good hearing another report of a positive impact on asthma - it's a scary thing to deal with, and really good to see that being more active has such a good effect.

[Bobnewbie]

Really pleased to read your blog. I've only just finished W3 R2 so early days for me but you are inspirational. I did not feel like going out today but felt so much better when I had.

[ju-ju- Graduate]

you are so inspirational, that is exactly what I aspire to, but I do wish I had Russian ancestry

Enjoy those wonderful times, Julia x

[Barbyk Graduate]

So encouraging, thank you. I've hit a brick wall this morning and feeling very sorry for myself...so nice to read this

[Anniemurph Graduate]

Happy anniversary! It's lovely to read your blog - very inspiring. Happy running

[vixiej Graduate]

I love reading blogs like this! Inspirational