Couch to 5k complete and utter novice. Please help!

Oh and on the first run I really disheartened myself by, not only trying to run too fast, but also trying to run too fast up hill and wondered why I couldn't do all the runs. For the time being I've limited myself to flatter routes and I've been able to finish every other session. And if I can do it, at 22st BMI somewhere in the 50s, with asthma and chronic kidney disease, I'm pretty confident that it's a good programme!!!

I'm on my 5th attempt.

The first ones failed for 2 reasons:
I was going too fast on the runs
I wasn't focused on my technique.

So GO for it. But remember to go slow. A slow jog, nothing more. You're not trying to do anything other than keep pootling along for the time.

Focus on running upright, head still, arms moving, and remember to breathe!!!

I'm starting week 5 tomorrow and feeling great doing it. I'm actually enjoying running.

I NEVER thought I'd say that!!!

I started in January and I second the above advice, go slow! You will get the urge to run fast because that's what you think running is and what you feel like you should be doing, I speak from painful experience that it's not a good idea! Slow it right down, you are working on stamina to being with, leave comes later. Im still slow, but it is improving! I started off with the free app but ended up just programming my watch with the timings and used that.

Oh and always dress slightly cooler than you think you'll need - you warm up fast!

OP I started the NHS c25K last week - week 2 run 2 is tomorrow morning. I'm morbidly obese (dangerously so) and running very slowly and gently but (due to my weight I expect) I struggled last run with very very sore shins. I will persevere though, I would like to achieve something positive during lockdown lol. Good luck with it!

I did couch to 5k and my mistake was actually running. It’s not sustainable long distance. More of a slow jog, really slow ha

Forgot to say, I ran 7k the other day

@ginggang , I started running in January using Couch to 5k. I loved it! I was surprised at the progress I made. Definitely go for it. I was 59 when I started, turned 60 last month. I achieved running 5k on a treadmill and outside just before hitting 60. I was so thrilled. Do get a sports bra as well as trainers. For my birthday I got given a running watch and earphones which helped a lot. It helps to have music to keep you going. Please feel free to ask me any advice . Good luck!

The app I mentioned is the free NHS one.

The One You couch to 5k is very easy to use. My running tip is to go MUCH slower than you think ‘running’ is, with shortish strides, and to land on the middle of your foot so you’re not clanking down onto your heel.

The NHS have a free version of it which is really straightforward. I did it a couple of years ago and am thinking of starting it again when I find some motivation!