C25K and General Running Questions

thedestar
thedestar Posts: 1,275 Member
edited September 2024 in Fitness and Exercise
I'm still in the beginning of my weight loss journey, but the more weight I lose the more I think that I would really enjoy running! I see a lot of people raving about the C25K program, and I've tried googling it but haven't found any definite answers. So my questions are- is it something you have to pay for? Is there a website specifically dedicated to this program? And of course I'd love to hear any success stories.

Right now I'm mostly just walking (when the weather is nice enough) in my Skecher's Tone Ups. I'm kind of afraid to run in them because they have such a thick sole and I'm afraid I would trip and sprain an ankle! So my next question is what kind of running shoes do you recommend? Note: I don't have a lot of money, so any affordable tips would be appreciated.

Thanks! :bigsmile:

Replies

  • forty3fab
    forty3fab Posts: 148 Member
    It is an application that you can buy for a smartphone. I have it on my android tablet and my iphone. It is only a couple bucks. It tells you when to walk and when to run and is a timed program to ease you into running a 5K.
  • arc918
    arc918 Posts: 2,037 Member
    Some running buddies of mine wrote the original C25K program and posted it on a site called Kick (which then became CoolRunning). The greedy b@stards at Active.com bought Coolrunning and they are now kind enough to charge you for the program.

    There are lots and lots of free versions of it floating around. Do not pay for this program (no need).
  • arc918
    arc918 Posts: 2,037 Member
    http://www.coolrunning.com/engine/2/2_3/181.shtml

    not sure it is cool to link here

    if not, just google search "coolrunning couch to 5K free"
  • reese66
    reese66 Posts: 2,920 Member
    C25k is on the Droid, they have the "lite" version which was free and the one I used.
  • CaptainGordo
    CaptainGordo Posts: 4,437 Member
    Another helpful site with lots of FREE info: http://www.c25k.com/

    I HIGHLY recommend using one of the many FREE podcasts that help you know when to walk and when to run. My favorite podcasts, along with more info: http://www.nhs.uk/Tools/Pages/couch-5K-running-plan.aspx .

    I really like the NHS podcasts, as they include good tips about form while you listen. The fantastic British accent helps too, to be honest. But that's me. Music's pretty good too.

    I never enjoyed running until now. Feels so good to start your day with a good run. I just started Week 4 this morning. never imagined I would be running for 5 minutes straight, but I did it twice in this morning's run. It's a fantastic program.

    Feel free to add me as a friend, and we can support each other in our running.
  • moylie
    moylie Posts: 195
    Before this time last year, I'd never run in my life! I did the Couch to 5K, and then ran three 5k's last summer. I'm now training for a 10-mile race in June, then a half-marathon in Oct. I started C25K while still overweight, and used older shoes. I then just bought some Asics that felt good from Kohl's. They were no more than $30-40. They lasted about 6 months. Now that I'm training for longer races, I've invested in more expensive shoes, and you can get fitted properly at any specialty running shoe store. I just printed the plan for free, then also downloaded C25K podcasts from itunes. Absolutely no need to spend $ on the program. HAVE FUN!
  • CaptainGordo
    CaptainGordo Posts: 4,437 Member
    Before this time last year, I'd never run in my life! I did the Couch to 5K, and then ran three 5k's last summer. I'm now training for a 10-mile race in June, then a half-marathon in Oct.
    Wow. Fantastic!
  • emilysebastian
    emilysebastian Posts: 245 Member
    Regarding your shoes... I agree with Moylie that you can find some good ones that are inexpensive to start with (I found my first pair of NB's at GI Joes on clearance!), but if you wind up addicted to running (which is very common!) you'll want to invest. If you want, you can even go get fitted at a running store just to know what type of shoe to look for--they can tell you what kind of arch support you need and gait you have, then go find some clearance shoes with their recommendations :happy: (Just be sure to keep that store in mind when you want to invest in a pricier pair--good karma!)

    Whatever you do, I wouldn't suggest running in the toners, even if it's between those or a really old pair of sneakers--if only for the fact that you are more likely to trip/twist something in soles that thick and end-up injuring yourself, and possibly your outlook on running!
  • grumpyswife123
    grumpyswife123 Posts: 42
    bump
  • tamcrit
    tamcrit Posts: 340 Member
    Want a success story? I started C25K last Feb. 2010 and am running my second half marathon in two weeks...check my profile. Good luck!!
  • thedestar
    thedestar Posts: 1,275 Member
    Thanks everyone! I really appreciate the advice :D
This discussion has been closed.

Categories