Runners - Beginner to 10k

[FAQs]

Is it possible?

I’ve only been jogging a week, hate it whilst doing it, can’t breathe and 3 Stone overweight but when I’m finished I’m on such a high!

So I’m thinking I’m needing a goal, there is a 10k near me in November, (if it goes ahead) am I being unrealistic.

I’m aiming for a 5k first but want the achievement of a 10k (and a medal and t-shirt )

I can currently only walk/jog/sprint for about 45 seconds each for about 20 minutes.

November is really realistic- totally.
Whether it will go ahead I'm not sure, but you will certainly be ready if it does!
Just build up slowly and enjoy the buzz after each run!! Good luck

Yes, it’s do-able! Especially as you like running.

Start with C25K - running 3x a week, starting point pretty close to where you are already. If you can fit in another exercise session (something like Pilates, yoga, weights/resistance class etc, then you’ll build a better body even faster)

Once you can do 5k (C25K is 9 weeks, but most people repeat at least one of them, so allow 12) have a pause, enjoy you’re achievement, do some parkruns (if they have restarted) or enter a virtual race or two.

Then look for a 5-10k improvers plan. Enter your first 10k at this point for motivation. It’s easier going from 5-10 than it is going from 0-5, so maybe 8 weeks of gradually increasing one long run will see you there

Have fun!!

That’s really motivating thank you both, sod it I’m going to book it now, will also look Yoga, weights etc I’ve seen a few free classes on YouTube.

My daughter laughs at me when I come home all red and clinging onto the front door frame trying to breathe waiting for her to open the door for me when I get back.

Thank you both

Also just downloaded the apps!

Another app to try (which I have not tried but have heard recommended oodles of times) is Zombies!Run!

Which organisation are you booking your 10K with?

There are COVID restrictions on RL events, so finding an organiser that switches events which cannot be run as an actual event to virtual ones might be worthwhile (not the same, but you still get bling)

If you are prepared to say roughly where you are, we might be able to help you find one

Totally reasonable, my first 'race' was a half marathon and I have no natural running ability!

I would say you have plenty of time but check if it's a road or trail race. Winter races are often trail which can be much harder.
If you c25k you don't want to be sprinting on the run sections. It should be a brisk walk and a jog. Ideally you should still be able to hold a conversation, otherwise you're running to hard.