I have a question.

[stepher625]

Today (9/21/16), ...(so, really, yesterday) was my first day of Couch to 5K.

I felt awesome, afterward. My chest felt so light. I had so much energy. It's time for bed, now.

My question... is it really necessary to rest the day after the first run? Can I go walk the same distance, at least?

[Slinkyminky Graduate]

Rest days are important, but don't mean you have to do nothing, a nice walk on rest days is perfectly fine, just no running!

Welcome to the club X

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

None impact exercise, such as swimming or cycling or Pilates, will be beneficial and gentle walking might just be OK, but your body repairs and strengthens on rest days, so they are essential.

It looks like we have to issue another addict warning........

[Ullyrunner Graduate]

Glad you enjoyed it but it's really important not to run on your rest days. Other exercise can be really beneficial though and something like strength training or Pilates will also help your running.

Enjoy!

[Beccym Graduate]

Yes! It is there to prevent injury.

[stepher625]

Thanks, y'all! I am not (yet) addicted to the actual act of running. I'm addicted to the feeling of energy that I had (yesterday), right after my run. I love this!

[Diamond89]

You'll soon be addicted! I used to run all the time but had to stop due to injury. Im slowly getting back into it and beginning to enjoy it again.

Change your route and your playlist regularly to keep it interesting.

[stepher625 in reply to Diamond89]

Thank you for the advice!

I need extra encouragement, so I downloaded NHS' Couch to 5K podcast thingie. The woman's voice tells you when to start walking, when to start running, and it plays music that fits the pace.