I graduated C25K!

flabassmcgee

This is actually a month late and I typed all of this out for another post, but I decided to post it here to encourage ANYONE that is having trouble running, that wants to run or just to motivate anyone with a goal.

I had always wanted to be a runner. I started and stopped the C25K (Couch To 5K) app numerous times.

In December, I decided enough was enough. I needed to do it and stick to it. I started at 210 pounds with 60 pounds to lose.

It wasn't easy... But it certainly wasn't impossible. I used the C25K group here in MFP to get some tips. Halfway through, I signed up for The Color Run 5K to motivate me to really do this.

If I felt like giving out, I knew to adjust my pace. I focused on my breathing and my form. I made sure my running shoes were fit and caused me little to no damage (I was bigger, so it caused more pressure to my knees at times). It felt less and less like dying and more like an accomplishment. I ran outside instead of the treadmill because I wanted to learn how to balance and the treadmill was always scary for me because of that. My endurance built up dramatically.

I will admit that my consistency wavered a bit in the middle. There was a week that I didn't run at all. But I got back out there as the 5K got closer. I was impatient and started trying to run the full 35 minutes. I didn't make it the first couple of tries and bounced back to the app again.

The night before the race, I really attempted to go for it at the treadmill at the gym. I did it and nearly burst into tears. I graduated the C25K! ME! The girl who huffed and puffed every 1 minute run I broke into that first day.

Race day was one of the most exciting days of my life. Though it's supposed to be all for fun and not timed, I ran the whole thing. I ran slowly and there were times I wanted to give up, but I kept going. When I saw the finish line, I don't know what came over me... But I had a burst of new energy and ran as fast as my legs would take me. I collapsed after I collected my medal with the biggest, goofiest grin.

My goal was to do it in 35 minutes. I did it in 39 minutes and 45 seconds.

I run 2-3 times a week now. If it's 2, I'll do some other kind of cardio to make up for it and to challenge My endurance in new ways.

You can run as slow as you want, just keep going!







That last one is about the most embarrassing picture ever taken of me, but I'm willing to share it cuz of that look of consternation and determination. Sorry for the faces I make when I'm running!

I have lost weight very slowly and I'm down about 16 pounds today. I love running now and I'm looking forward to signing up for another run (The Hot Chocolate Run). I even have my heart set on 10K training, but not at this time.

If I can do it, YOU can do it!

socioseguro

Congratulations for the achievement and thanks for sharing.
Keep up the good work
I would like to suggest to repost at MFP board "success stories". This is a success in my book
Good luck in your healthy journey

JenniferInCt

Awesome job and story! Thanks for sharing and congratulations!

namarc0

What a great post! Congratulations on the race and the completion of your program!! I'm in the middle of week 4 and am struggling to stay motivated. This really helped. Thanks for sharing!

Cortneyrenee04

Congrats!!! What a huge accomplishment! Running is so addictive!

I'm doing my first Color Run (GLITTER!) this summer and I can't wait!

flabassmcgee

Cortneyrenee04 wrote: »

Congrats!!! What a huge accomplishment! Running is so addictive!

I'm doing my first Color Run (GLITTER!) this summer and I can't wait!

I just did the Glitter tour! It's so fun, you can do this!