Wii Fit to 5k - is it possible?

[spursmummy]

I am a fairly unfit single mum and I work full time so my chances to get exercise are extremely limited. I commute into London every day for work and don't have the time/money to join a gym at lunchtime. I've started getting up a little earlier most days to do some jogging, muscle exercises and yoga on my Wii Fit (old version) mainly so I can generate some energy to keep up with my 3 year old DD but I'd also like to aim for something such as doing the Race for Life; I'm just worried that the difference between jogging on the spot and actually running outside is too great! Have any of you done something like this? I need some advice and inspiration please.

Good for you!! The race for life is such a good race, people of all stages of fitness and speeds do it. You will really enjoy it!! Running outside is different than running on the spot so if you can get some miles in your trainers, it would really help!!

Do you have any work colleagues / friends who could go for a lunch time 20 minute power walk with you? The power of chat to take your mind off how much it hurts is under rated!! Could you walk part of the way to work? How about getting out with your DD at the weekend - does she have a scooter - you could do "races" together!!

Well done for taking the first step. I did my first run 10 years ago, 5K and I was sick at the end but have been running ever since!! Running with other Mummies is the best, you don't feel intimidated and women are great at multitasking, running and chatting at the same time, the time and the miles go much quicker than when you are on your own!!

Good Luck!!

I have very recently started running again and I am using the 'Run for Life' book by Sam Murphy which has a programme for going from zero to 20min runs in 7 weeks. After this, working up to 5k shouldn't be a problem.

It starts you out with just walking for two minutes, running for one, repeating 6 times. If you've been running using the Wii you should be able to manage to run for 3 mins or more in any case.

The programme in the book has four sessions a week but it's still easy to follow even if you can only do one or two a week. I can e-mail the full schedule if you CAT me, but I really recommend the book as it has loads of advice and encouragement regarding running and is specifically written for women.

I do think it would be worth doing some runs outside - lunchtimes or weekends sound like they would fit in best with your schedule. Maybe you could find another local mum who is also keen to get fit, and you could take turns to look after the kids/go running on each weekend morning? I remember spotting some mums doing this outside our local sports centre and thinking what a good idea it was! Or you could look out for a second-hand jogging buggy (although depending on how heavy your 3 yr old is this might make it quite a demanding run)!

Can you walk/run at lunchtime?