where to start?

[nightshade1]

im 26 mum of 2, about 2stone overweight and very unfit. I know ive got to do something about it (besides which I would quite like to fit in my wedding dress next june!)

but where do I start, im not sporty infact I was always the last one waiting to be picked for school games.

id like to be able to run (its free) but I cant do it - I lollop along like a half dead hippo then collapse in a heap after 100yds. the gym looks scary (and expensive if I don't keep it up)

zumba or bokwa or anything like that are out - im deaf and really struggle in crowded places.

so please help me, any recommendations - is couch to 5k really doable if Ive never run at all - or am I best to get over it and join the gym ?

Do a search here for all the C25k threads and have a read through them. You will see how many hundreds of people thought exactly like you before they started (not sporty ... can't run ... overweight ... unfit ... can never do it ... will never be able to run ...) and you will read success story after success story. And there will always be a ton of support, guidance, tips and all the help you will need as you work your way through the programme.

The point of it is that it builds speed and endurance so gradually that you are never asked to do more than you can actually do and your stamina will increase to a point that you will surprise yourself by how much you can do. And you will have virtual running partners and a whole lot of people here cheering you on.

Honestly, just do it. It is very very doable. I am 20 years older than you and I did it and am now planning to start 5k to 10k.

Yes, C25K is totally managable.
The only running I've done since leaving school is running for a bus.
But I can now run for 30 mins (or do 5km in 35 mins). Unthinkable several months ago.

be warned tho - weight loss is not nften gfret unless you combine with sensible eating. Many of us have lost inches, and clothes are looser, but not lost weight (lost fat, gained muscle)

Give it a go - nothing to loose, everything to gain. The current thread I'm in has chimps and snails in the title, and everyone is amazingly supportive.

infact here it is

I am tackling the weight slowly but surely by just being a bit careful and more aware of whats going in. (ok its only 1/2 pound a week bit its 1/2 pound in the right direction)

I just don't want to be out of breath at the slightest exertion anymore. my 8 yr old started running club and was immediately picked to run x-country for the year above so I want to be able to go out into the woods with her and instead of just ambling along while she runs to the end of the path and back (several times) id like to at least be able to jog with her.

Then I'd say C25k is for you.

Come across to a thread, and get started, You can always change your mind!