Starting running without c25k

[orzo15]

Sorry if this has been asked dozens of times, but this year my goal is to start running. I've tried couch to 5 k years ago and I really don't like the repetitiveness of it and I get bored easily listening to the music.

Does anyone have any good beginner tips for people to start without this? Thank you! :)

Principles are the same: run a bit walk a bit then run a bit. Gradually increase the running. Simples! C25k only just makes it easier to track your progress.

I never used C25K and went from being a non-runner to running a marathon. I don't think it was any less repetitive though as you have to start slowly and build up carefully - running puts so many stresses on ligaments and muscles, it's easy to get an injury. Looking back, C25K would have been a good start . . . if only I'd had the patience!

Runners World have some good training programmes for beginners - available free online. Might be worth a look?

I used a different couch to 5k app (Zen labs) that allowed me to listen to my own music which made all the difference. The gradual increase of running to walking ratio is important to avoid injury so although it's repetitive it's necessary and the progress is motivating.

I used zen labs and audiobooks!! The C25K program is really sensible...you can always follow the plan without the app if that suits you better!

The bbc cto5k allows your own music and Sarah millican. You can do it pet!

I couldn’t get on with C25K either for the same reason - I found listening to music while running quite boring and it was too repetitive.

I use the zombie one instead and really like it. It has a storyline of its own and you have to be moving to hear it. Each run is a different ‘mission’. There are quiet parts and I’ve set it up so it automatically plays a podcast during these.

I think the Aaptiv app could be good for you, it has lots of different workouts including starting running and different kinds of music. I may be explaining it badly but it is more fun than couch to 5k. They do 30 day trial I think.

Thanks so much! Lots of suggestions I will check out :)

I've started from scratch a couple of times on the treadmill with no walking in between, just jogging for as long as I can, starting with 10 minutes, increasing to 15, etc.

C25K was not for me. I noticed I was too concetrated on the time and not relaxing at all. I still don't like running but what worked for me was having a purpose with the run. Like, I WFH but occationally I need to print stuff so I run to the office and back. If I need to pick up a package, I take the longer route to the post office. I also have my fave podcasts and I can listen to them only when running. Another thing that helped was to just suffer through. I pick a time instead of a distance. If I choose to run for 30 min, I do it. does not matter if it is 2k, 3k or 5k.

Start with a mile distance and run as long as you can then walk then run again etc. Could be half mile out and half mile back. Other option is run then just stop for a minute then run again stop for a minute etc. Increase your distance every week by half a mile ....