Finally completed podcast 5.

[con-brio]

I've not been quite so constant recently... 5x50 and heavy workload. Still, I've finally got around to completing level 5... will now download the "shorter" version and try to be more regular.

The programme has definitely helped improve my upper body strength and the leg exercises/stretches are slowly having an effect on my performance when walking/cycling etc.

The bench dips are fine some days, impossible others! A challenge.

To anyone considering the programme, give it a go. Not too strenuous, muscles gradually build up and it really does improves your mood afterwards.

[TheEditor]

Great feedback con-brio! This should inspire others to follow your example!

[con-brio in reply to TheEditor]

Do I get a grad badge?

[sergeant_tibbs]

Congratulations con-brio! I just got back into using the week 5 podcast, and oh my god, I could feel the difference in my legs the next day. The bench dips are definitely the hardest for me too. Are you doing anything else on your rest days? I'm thinking about adding in a walk in the morning and doing S&F in the evenings.

[con-brio in reply to sergeant_tibbs]

Better late than never...

Done the 5x50... cycling, walking, swimming and the odd run (have had to suspend running after C25K graduation due to postural problems... new orthotic soles... hopefully will get the all clear soon).

Am continuing with S&F interpersed with walking and cycling... must get back to the swimming-pool, too.

Your routine sounds great.

[sergeant_tibbs in reply to con-brio]

Yes, I had to take a break from running too because of a hip/pelvic pain that I can't figure out. Still doing S&F intermittently and I started walking every day. I'm hoping it keeps me motivated to continue exercising until I can start running again.

Boo, injuries!

[con-brio in reply to sergeant_tibbs]

Sorry to hear about the hip pain... mine started with an accompanying pain across the front of my left thigh. That's now disappeared thanks to the insoles, but am having problems with sore achilles tendons. GP did warn me about running... Physio says all's OK, that the insoles are working and that the problem's moved up to the lumbar region (inclined right hip).

Boo Hoo! I want to get back to running! Still, I've always enjoyed walking long distances, so I'll have to accept his verdict (and manipulation) for now.

Have you noticed how distances seem so much longer though than when running them.

[sergeant_tibbs in reply to sergeant_tibbs]

Yes hah, sometimes it feels so long that I *almost* start running to finish the mile, then I have to stop myself...I think that's actually a good thing that I'm so excited!

I've been scouring the boards to figure out my hip pain on the right side (it's like a clicking sound plus pain on the ball and socket about 30 minutes into my run) but I haven't been able to self-diagnose it and I don't have access to a sports doctor right now Hopefully we'll both heal soon!

[alcopop]

Hey you, glad to see you are getting on with it so well, how is the cycling going? I miss your running blogs and the great descriptions, perhaps we need a cycling / walking blog

You have spurred me on to give it more effort.

[con-brio in reply to alcopop]

See response to sergeant-tibbs above.

After falling off my bike during the 5x50 challenge, I've been a bit slack of late... just wee little outings. Still half an hour or so of pedalling is better than nothing.

S&F continuing, as it's easy to fit in.