AIBU to think I can run a marathon in a year?

[sparkleandsunshine]

I'm big, I'm on slimming world, I've lost just over a stone but I'm still 15st6lb, now a size 20 and do literally do no exercise.

I've been feeling great eating healthy and decided I wanted to do some exercise, and it needs to be something I can just go out and do rather than travel to (I have a 3 month old) so I decided to run.

I went out the other day and ran a mile. It took me 16 minutes and I felt like I was going to die.
I've only spoken about it with one friend and my DP who are keeping it a secret at my request. And they've signed up for the Norwich 10k with me in August. Then I went for a run last night, it's the first run of a 12 week training plan to run 10k (the run is just over 12 weeks from now) and it wasn't so bad because there was loads of intervals walking and running. But I only covered 1.65 miles in 25 minutes.

I can't even imagine running 10k. Which is why this next bit is crazy, I've got this weird dream that I could run a marathon this time next year. I'm huge and so unfit, I'm pretty sure this is impossible. I'm right, right?

My DP and friend are really encouraging but I'm not telling anyone else at the moment in case I fail. I don't want anyone I know IRL to think "yeah there's no way she can do that" but I really really want to do it. I even started a blog to write it all down and try and be positive, but I'm not sharing it on social media or with any of my friends yet. I put my weight on there too. I think they'd be shocked at how heavy I've got. I called it tubbygirlrunning.co.uk to try and laugh it all, but I'm not laughing.

I'm so ashamed of what I've let myself become.

I gues what I'm looking for is if there's anyone that's done what I want to do? Or any runners who maybe wanna give me a reality check or have any tips. Just honest opinions really, is this crazy? Am I just making a fool of myself?

I ran the London Marathon a two weeks ago! It was incredible. I only found out I was doing it in February as I got a place on a charity reserve list after someone pulled out. Though I was not overweight, I was very unfit. I started with the c25k programme then had to up my distance quickly after that. Training was gruelling, not going to lie! But wow, the sense of achievement when going over that finish line, made it more than worthwhile.
Go for it.

I couldn't run for a bus when I started training but 6 months later, I'd completed the London Marathon in just over 5 hours.

I had a PT session once a week to support my strength training (which is vital, due to the stress your body goes under whilst marathon training) and ran 3-4 times a week (smaller more frequent session at the beginning; fewer, longer ones at the end).

Best thing I ever did.

I've just run the London Marathon too! When I first started training, I couldn't run 4km without stopping! I totally 100% believe that you can do it!

One of the best days of my life!

Check out Mind Over Marathon- a group of (mostly) beginners aiming to complete the London Marathon after only 20 weeks' training. In their case they're doing it to improve their mental health but might inspire you no matter what your reasons.

www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p04yy0r8/mind-over-marathon-episode-1

There's a Facebook group called run mummy run. Full of wonderful supportive women. I went from non runner to marathon in 10 months. You can totally do it!

Aww!! Hooray Sparkle!! I don't think I've ever contributed to anyone dancing round their living room before!

So glad you're feeling inspired. You can do it! And keep us updated!!

(And yes, medals are completely addictive!)

It is do able.

I did the great north run in 2012, 11 months after having my DD. When I started training I was 18 1/2 stone and had never run in my life. I trained for it in 9 weeks, ran it in 2hrs42.33 mins and was 16 st 10. One of the best experiences of my life!

I wouldn't recommend such a rush though! I did a bupa training programme.

paddy I've been saying that it was one of the best days of my life too.. people look at me like I'm crazy

Following because I have been having similar thoughts today... not the marathon I just want to be able to run. Im fat and need to sort myself out. Planning to start this week...

LTBiscuit I would do it all again! :)

I also went from being a non runner to running a marathon in a year.

C25K, parkruns and then enter a couple of 10Ks

OP, I am similar. I am in my 40's and 4 and a half stone overweight. I am starting my running journey tomorrow.
I have signed up for a local c25k course and a 5k in July .
I have also entered the ballot for next years London Marathon, but nobody knows this.

Reading posts like this really helps with motivation. I am scared of failing as I am seriously unfit. But it is great to read that others like me are doing it.

YES you can! I ran my first one a year after beginning running. I had a degree of fitness from gym classes etc but a love of wine and fags meant running was a big challenge- I struggled to do a mile at first but within 4 months was doing 10 milers. Just start slow, build up bit by bit and go at your own pace. Go girl!

Oh - and even now I run 20ish miles a week, the first 1-3 miles of every run are always horrid! So once you accept that, and treat it as a warm up you will be flying to the longer distances.

CarlottosWay sounds like we are on the same page! Fingers crossed we both do it!!

You guys who've already done it are amazing!!! I wanna be you guys this time next year!!!

Yes you can! But it's a lot of training, and you need to stick to it. I found the hardest bit was working up to running 30 mins without stopping, once you can do that, adding extra distance on isn't too bad as long as you do it slowly.

Get decent running shoes, makes such a difference.

Good luck!

Go for it!

I highly recommend Parkrun as often as possible. Free, very supportive, friendly, all abilities from elite to walkers, all shapes and sizes...anyone!
Each week you will find it easier and easier which will motivate you more.

Good luck!

We are sparkleandsunshine .
Did my first couch 2 5k session last night. I enjoyed it, though the same can't be said for my legs . The two sessions I have to do on my own this week will be tough.