C25k - just did my first run!!!

[flossyfloo]

I can't believe I managed to do it! I am very unfit and about 3 stone overweight. But I did it

Just wanted to share with someone as I'm very proud of myself at the moment

Just back from second ever run! It was great, I wasn't nervous or excited
like the first time, just enjoyed it and spaced out. I'm looking forward to starting my beginner's class next week.

Question for the more experienced runners.How long until I feel the benefits of running? I'm hoping for more energy, stamina, stress relief etc, (not trying to lose weight). Do you feel better now compared to when you started?

I don't notice any difference in stamina, I'm sure there must be because I never would have been able to run 5k before but it was gradual so I haven't really noticed it IYSWIM.

I have noticed other changes, I've had to buy new jeans because mine were all too big and I have buns of steel I've definitely got more energy too.

Asinine I'm just five weeks in, from a pretty unfit start, and so far I would say I have noticed more energy, a more positive outlook on life, slightly less stress and a tiny bit lighter (I'm breastfeeding so not dieting as such, but trying to make healthier choices. Apart from chocolate).

The energy is the main thing as sleep is a little hard to come by round these parts at the moment.

I am only a pound or two lighter, but I do feel a good bit slimmer. Not sure how that works out, something to do with body fat and muscle perhaps?

I'm hoping for more energy, that is my holy grail!

Asinine - I feel like I have loads more energy, I have to be in work really early and sleep so much better, no cellulite left really on my bum and thighs, and am now a comfortable 12 rather than almost an 18 when I started over a year ago. My legs are really toned and because I've lost weight all over arms don't wobble (stomach bit of a jelly mess though!). I love the escape running gives me - my job is stressful and toddler twins are too, but when I run, I know that the next 45-60 mins holds, and I find that quite comforting. I have got loads more energy to keep up with the kids. I run four days a week (M, Tu, Th & F) early morning. I bloody love it - a year ago I was blowing out of my arse just getting up the road, but aerobic fitness can build up really quick. Good luck to everyone.

I'm so glad I came on this thread. It's so encouraging to hear all this positive stuff about running. I'm on a rest day today, but will still be doing a long dog walk as usual.

Did w5r2 this morning. This is an unusual week because all three runs are different, whereas the previous weeks have been three repetitions of the same run/walk pattern.

Today was two blocks of 8 minutes. I was very apprehensive knowing how I've felt at the end of a 5 minute block but actually, it was ok. I don't know if it was because there are only two blocks, which seems easier somehow than three or four, or what. But I did it! I really paced myself and also put some new songs on my playlist to spur me on, that helped a lot. Also I wasn't worrying about the dog as I ran alone today.

I'll walk him later. Might help with the stiff legs :o

Twenty minute run on Friday...

Lovely to hear some inspiration! Also can anyone tell me if it matters which days you rest? I started on Saturday, then ran Monday and I'd like to go out again today but really don't want to risk injury and conscious of building up slowly. My body still feels quite fragile 5 months after c section.

Hunter, you'll be fine, honestly. The first 5-10 minutes of a run is always the hardest, once you find your rhythm it's just as easy to carry on as it is to stop.

Yoni, you need to have at least one rest day between runs. Whether or not you go three times a week or do alternate days (so 3 days one week, 4 days the next) is up to you. It's also important to listen to your body so if you don't feel up to it, don't go. Having 2 or even 3 days off won't ruin your fitness level.

oh W2R1 was hard for some reason! I was outside for the first time which was nice, have done the others on a treadmill so far. And I had had a bit of a break for holidays/illness so maybe it was that. I'm frustrated because I forgot to turn on the GPS function on my phone so I could track my pace times...d'oh!

Meebles I found w2r1 hard too. In fact I'd say w2 has probably been the hardest week for me so far. No idea why...

Yoni I run mon, weds, fri. But I don't think it matters as long as you leave a day's rest in between, minimum. I just like my weekends off :o

I've downloaded this evening, and am doing my first run tomorrow. Thanks asinine for pointing me in the direction of this thread.

Good luck wibbly! I'm doing W1r3 today. It's blowing a gale so shoud be interesting!

Doing W1r2 tonight, looking forward to it. Promised myself if I get through week 2 and am still committed then I'm treating myself to proper running shoes.

Just completed third run, felt a bit wobbly at the end but running up a steep hill. Also drank two strong cups of coffee before run-bad idea.
I've promised myself half leg running bottoms if I survive complete 5k at end of June, currently wearing cast off full leg bottoms which are on the tight side.

I keep telling everyone that I've taken up running, and burbling about C25K and the internet. Never mention mumsnet, though!

Oh no hang on, I'm on w1r3. That's better!

Well, we have hail, rain and thunderstorms here, should make my first run interesting

On the plus side, wibbly, there will be fewer people around

W1R1 complete. Can't say I enjoyed it at the time, as it just reminded me how unfit I actually am. Sense of achievement now though! Hopefully I'll be less wibbly soon.

Did w4r3 on Tuesday, felt more achievable than w4r1 ... So was pleased I'd made progress. W5r1 tomorrow morning, feel ok about it but already worrying about w5r3 ... I just can't see how I am going to be able to run for 20mins when I have only just managed 5! Hunter - I'm watching your posts with interest as you are only a couple of runs ahead of me. Asinine - I'm doing the same re telling everyone about c25k, I can't believe I had never heard of it until 6 weeks ago!!

Well done new and everyone else. Yes, w5r3 tomorrow... Will report back!

Hi all
Did w1r2 last night and it was much better than I expected so much so that I'm actually looking forward to running tomorrow night!
Wow, I never thought I'd be typing that!!!

sadlovedgirl, I was the same, I never thought I'd actually enjoy it- I thought it'd be a chore. I think that's the good thing about C25K, it paces you so that you don't get carried away thinking you are Liz Yelling and then end up injuring yourself and hating running.

Hunter, looking forward to reading your triumphant update!

Just did w1r3 and it felt great! My shin ached a little on w1r2 but tonight my legs felt stronger and I was a bit less puffy I think. So motivated now!
Good music really helps I think. Really inspired by those of you a few weeks in.

That just it Eau, I think I went out too hard on my first run, whilst on my second run I'm sure there were faster passing butterfly's but my thinking Is that the hare didn't win the race!!