C25K- Am I kidding myself?

Don't let the speeds of others discourage you! Do the speed you can do and build from there. I started with only 30 second runs at a 3.8 and moved up from there. you'll be surprised at how fast you'll get to a mile without stopping!

I was NOT a jogger/runner either when I started C25K, I completed the program starting out like you and by the end I was running/jogging at 4.0. I started the program again and was doing the running parts at 5.0. I've slacked off lately :-( and left off at Week 3, Day 3 I think, I will probably have to start the program over, but it does work you up to being able to pick up your speed.

My advice is to start where you feel comfortable, don't push yourself. I think I'm going to start again tonight, I actually miss it!

Good luck!

def keep sticking to it . if you werent even used to walking at a fast pace on the treadmill then you shouldnt just jump into running. the program DOES work though. i am starting again today ! i did it and kept up the consistent 3 mile runs for a few months last year [dont know why i stopped ] but i was walking at 4 mph and running at 6 or 6.5

build up your walking stamina first then move on to actual running. cause 4 mph to me isnt even jogging.. unless youre short maybe im not sure!! [im 5'9 so i know height plays a role in me going a little faster i guess]

If you're really not prepared for C25K, which is possible, you can increase your cardiovascular strength for a week or so before giving it a go. Why not modify the program to speed walking and regular walking? Up the incline, move your arms, and power through. You can probably speed walk at about 3.8mph. Do a week of speed walking intervals and then move to jogging. It will help acclimate your body to exercise and you'll be more comfortable on the treadmill!

Have to say can't comment on the treadmill side of it as I run outside, but I can promise you it is doable and it does get better - I completed week 9 last week. And believe me I struggled to run for 60 seconds at the start - in fact I think I actually did less than that, probably no more than 40 before giving up!!!! I completed my first 5k race last Wednesday so I, along with lots of others on the boards here, are proof that it does work.

Have faith in yourself and just take it slow and at the pace you find you can do. Doesn't matter how fast other people run, this is about you! Half the battle with running is mental but have belief in yourself. Just think of each little 60 second bit at a time, don't think of the whole 5k end achievement, and do what you can. You'll be amazed at what you can do

Just keep plugging away! When I first started being a couch potato would have been a step up for me! Your body will respond and you will be amazed!

Don't worry about the speed yet. Go at a pace you're comfortable with and can maintain and concentrate on getting through the run intervals as they increase. Once you can run the full distance, then worry about working on speed.

Believe me! I was -never- a runner (couldn't even finish the 1-mile challenges in high school gym). However, for some reason I decided I wanted to start. I began C25K in February (at about 240lbs) and had some delays along the way with scheduling issues (and excuses!), but finished the program and then worked myself up to the full 5K distance just in time to run my first race this past Sunday. Yes, I was very slow (43 minutes - SHHH!!), but I finished without walking!!

Now that I can do that (and that I've lost 60lbs), I will work on speed. My plan is to go back and use my C25K intervals again, but instead of walking and running I will alternate running speeds - my current pace and a faster pace - to start getting my time down.

Trust the program and go at a pace you can maintain. If I can do it, anyone can... and I did it!!

Please don't let the speed of others discourage you. I started at 3.5 walking and jogging at 4.0. I had to do the program many times and repeat many weeks. It's fine...you go at your own pace. I used to feel bad when I would look at others running at 6.0 and I could barely keep breathing at 4.5.

I have now completed the C25K and I'm on the Ease into 10K. The best thing is I'm running at 5.0/5.5 and it seems so easy for me. You won't believe how strong you become and how fast it happens. Take the pace that is best for you and your body. Don't push yourself or you will hurt yourself. This is for you, you are not in a race with anyone. You can do this!

Hi, and congratulations on the progress you've made so far, it's awesome! Stick with it, it will get easier, I promised.

I've put together all my beginner's running tips here:
http://www.myfitnesspal.com/blog/BerryH/view/20-things-i-wish-i-d-known-about-running-when-i-started-103936

The very first one is:
When you start out, it’s HARD! Even if you think you’re fit, running is so different to anything else you’ve done before you will get out of breath quickly. Stick with it. Can’t manage a minute? Go slow. Still can’t? GO SLOWER!

Good luck!

Hello all, I have just started C25k on Sunday. Week 1 day 1 was a blast, but I paced myself. I walked the first 5 min at 2.5 for warm up and ran no more than 4.5 each 1 minute that I was supposed to. I then cooled down by walking 2.0. Although my legs are killing me, I loved every bit of how I felt afterwards. Today will be week1 day2.

To answer your question - C25K-Am I kidding myself?

You're not....This is only your 1st day. Just pace yourself and you will be fine. I think the only reason why I can run at 4.5 is because I started running on my treamill a couple of weeks ago so I kind of gotten used to going at a certain speed. I wish you the best of luck with your journey!!! :flowerforyou:

I am doing the C25K program, and I LOVE it!!! I NEVER thought I could be a runner...But now I am in Week 5!!! I go at a very slow pace, but I FINISH, that is all that matters! :-) Finding your pace is key.

Don't despair, I used to be over 400lbs and walking anywhere much less running was no easy task.. now I love running, granted I can only do about 30 mins before feeling like a noodle lol but you can do it..

You can modify the C25K program if it feels like they are increasing it at a pace too much for you... but don't give up you can get to where you want to be by determination.

Heather, remember what we talked about. Just the fact that you are getting on there and exercising 3 times a week will make the difference.