I struggle with running..never going to be any good in terms of fast or endurance,but I just concentrate on keeping going,tiny improvements and the fact that whilst I was out slogging round Parkrun on a muddy course in the wet,most people are sitting at home.So what if I had to stop?

This week I did 7k because a very kind person at my very  kind club talked to me non stop.

THats what keeps me going .

Thanks Tosh, some really good advice.  There is a weekly 5k run nor far from me every Sunday, but feel I have neither the confidence or ability yet.  But i think the 5k 12 week programme would be a good one to follow. 

That's great, Steve, and I know what you mean about the 'making excuses not to run'; I'm a great starter but not very good at maintaining stuff over the long haul, but something has changed within the past six months and I'm having no problems getting myself out there.  I just tell myself I don't have to enjoy it, I just have to do it (but I generally do enjoy it once I'm out).  Maybe I've matured?  

If I could make a suggestion, I would recommend that you don't overdo it and work from one of the couch to 5k programs, there's loads of 'em on the interweb, and then do some Park Runs.  I love the way it records your time and you can see how you improve; and the atmosphere is nice too; friendly and casual with plenty of people who don't look like runners, but are doing it anyway.

Regards,

Tosh

Unfprtunately forthe last few weeks I have managed to find some excuses not to go out.  All very valid (it might rain, I am working late, England might win a game).

However I really want to get fit and lose some of that weight, so a new month and a new start. Have just got back and feel great.  I am still only doing the same mile and half route, and will continue to do so until I can do it in say 16 minutes.

Then go onto 2 miles, is that a good idea.  It's a bit embarassing but i feel a great sense of achievement.  I now feel I have a right to come back on the boards and post as I have joined the training fraternity again.

Just wondered how Stephen was getting on ?

Hey well done on your PB! I admire anyone who pulls on their trainers and shoves themselves out of the front door for that first time, no matter how far or how long it takes.

Keep going and let us know how you get on!

Thanks everyone.  I can see that my starting position is not that unique.  I guess with all sport, exercise regimes the key is perseverance.  Just been out to do the same walk limpy joggy thing, and having done it 2 seconds quicker now have a PB !  What was great was the nods and smiles from the other joggers as they approached, or in most instances passed me.  I felt like a member of a unique club, and I didn't think anyone in my town smiled at strangers.  Am definiteyly going out again this weekend.

Well done!  Running has it's rewards, keep it up.  I started running 6 months ago as my 40th birthday came hurtling towards me.  Whilst not oveweight I was very unfit and can remember how hard my first half mile jog was.  Now I am running a total of around 15 miles a week and loving it.  Use this site to set yourself achievable goals, this has been a great help to me to spur me on.  My eureka moment was when I could actually run a mile without having to stop to breathe, then a week or so later I found I could run and talk at the same time, then I could run up hills (just about - still working on that one).  Your fitness levels increase with every step and that is the reward for running.  Only draw back now is the housework does not get a look in - Ah well! ;-)

Well done Steve, the first step is always the hardest and you have got that one under your belt.  Please keep going it is so worth it - I know from personal experience.

Like you I was out of shape, overweight and even worse than that I smoked!!!! and was just coming up to 55 - all in all a bit of a lost cause. I joined a gym and spent 6 months just trying to get into shape and lose a bit of weight - then came the breakthrough - I went to support my sister when she ran the London marathon last year and that inspired me to throw away my cigarettes and try running (I do use that term very lightly).  I started the C25K programme and about 6 weeks later joined a local running club (they have a special session for beginners - walking and/or running). My first 2k jog took me about 20 minutes, but I felt so fantastic at having done it I could have burst.  As with you my only ambition was to complete 5k - which I did about another 6 weeks later - by then I was hooked, and even though I never intended it I have just done my first half marathon (at a very, very slow pace).

As Louise and Keith say logging your exercise sessions helps to keep you motivated on the tough days and makes you smile on the good days - I hope you have more good days than tough days and getting lots of joy out of your running :-)

Yes, well done Steve.  We all have to start somewhere - I remember my first 'run' well - I jogged about half a mile, probably at not very much faster than walking pace and just couldn't believe how hard it was, but if you keep at it you should see an improvement soon.  Just remember to keep logging your exercise as it should help your motivation.