Onwards and upwards. Need to shed some pounds somehow.

[Netweight]

New to this and looking forward to the support from other members. Where do I start? Any tips welcome.

[Beek]

Morning Netweight! I don't know if you have actually set out running at all but well done for trying. This plan is superb in many ways for you to achieve a whole bunch of benefits for your well being.

Have you downloaded the pod casts? The main advice is to start slow and steady for all your runs. If you are too eager and fast then you may run out of steam and disappoint yourself. Worse still you may strain something in the process which is no good either.

So - slow and steady, if you really need to walk for a few seconds do so. The main thing is to get out there and keep moving! Some days may be really challenging for you. We all have these rubbish days and you don't need to worry. Just set it behind you and you will probably find your next run is a good one!

A good tip is to measure yourself before you start the programme because whilst at first you may not lose pounds you will certainly lose inches! If you have time you could also do the Strength and Flexibility routines on your non-run days. This will help with your core strength and trim you down.

In my experience I found that the running really did curb my appetite and I just did not feel as hungry. Eat a good balanced diet and you will very soon start to see results. Your friends will soon comment on the changes they see in you and your clothes will feel comfy on you. You may not lose pounds straight away but there will be obvious good results.

Good luck and well done for starting.

Keep popping back to this blog site and take advantage of all the kindness and support that those on here gladly give to encourage newbies. Some of us are stark staring bonkers and will make you laugh, but everyone is encouraging .

We were all where you are now at one time and we really understand the issues!

Happy running! (you'll understand that phrase at about week 7 )

[Beek]

I have just realised that you are from the Strength and Flex community. I thought you were from the running C25K group so my reply may not make much sense for you. Take a look there and see how you feel. I did S & F at the start and loved it! (It's the C25K group where the bonkers ones are!)

[GoogleMe Graduate in reply to Beek]

But for weight loss, aside from eating better, it definitely needs to be something like running (or cycling or swimming or brisk walking etc) doesn't it? Strength and Flexibility is another part of developing your fitness - well worth it to support your other efforts, less likely to get injured (sorry Beek!)

[Beek in reply to GoogleMe]

I totally agree with you, Googleme. I did S&F at the start of of C25K and it does help to prevent injuries. No need for sorry - I'm not offended or anything.

[Hidden]

The C25K app has worked wonders for me, I've lost over 5 stone since April, I've never been fitter, and I've found a new hobby that I really love. I now regularly run 10k, and i've signed up fo a half marathon!

The really important thing is take it slow, follow the plan (even if you think you can do more). It really works, and you have a whole new you to look forward to.

[Joel in reply to Hidden]

Yeah, good point. There's also a Couch to 5K community in HealthUnlocked: healthunlocked.com/couchto5k