Starting Couch to 5K

[TrekFX]

Hi all,

I've tried countless times in the past to become a runner, the last time was the most successful but sadly I had to stop due to a knee problem that took about a year to heal.

I'm now more than ever determined to start this, I know it's going to be hard, but reading other people's stories has given me encouragement.

This is the start of a new beginning!

Simon

[misswobble Graduate]

Hi Simon

You've come to the right place as there are loads of inspiring stories on here. Take time to browse through some and you'll find people in the same boat as you. You can see on the column on the right hand side that the programme threads are divided up into weeks so you will find fellow C25kers on the same week as you that you can "chat" to and support each other

If you have a troublesome knee then make sure you have the right running shoes and that you go SLOWLY. Slow is the name of the C25k game!! It really is. Those who go slow will get through it. Remember it's 9 weeks so pace yourself

Most of all enjoy it!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and C25k, Simon. This programme will get you to its stated aim of running three times a week for 30 minutes at a time and it will do it gently, so as to reduce your risk of injury. We will cheer you on and if you follow Laura's instruction, you will indeed become a runner.

I had bad knees for years and told myself that running would be bad for them. However I have found that my knees are stronger than ever and rarely cause me any problems at all. Running off road reduces the shock to your knees and as the magnificent MissW says, get the best running shoes you can afford, along with advice, if not gait analysis when you buy them.

Good luck and keep us posted.

[Irishprincess Graduate]

Welcome Simon to this great new world. The others have given you great advice and all I'll say is that you should be prepared for a new you. This programme is life changing and people changing!

Keep posting and tell us about your runs. We love hearing others' stories! Good luck and enjoy!

[poppypug Graduate]

Good Luck Simon, let us know how you go on. You've made probably one of the best decisions of your life .

We're all rootin' for you xxx