C25K feedback

I've done it twice and now back a third time --- all with great results!! The only reason I had to "do over" was because I got lazy.

I've been able to run 1/2 marathons after the first two times. I am NOT a runner and never did gain too much speed - but enjoyed jogging. Doing it again now in hopes of jogging another 1/2 in May. I'm one that only finds jogging enjoyable after the first three miles - so frankly, I have to force C25K - but it is so worth it!!

I'm sure you'll get tons of responses on this as C25K seems to be pretty popular on here. I think it's the perfect way to start running and it worked for me. Just stick to the program and don't try to modify it (i.e. run more often). It will ramp you up slowly but surely. I'm two weeks removed from my first 5k and I loved it. I'm signed up for my second and I'm continuing my training with my sights now set on a half marathon. And to think, back in early spring I was sitting on the couch downing ice cream and M&M's while playing ps3. Now I'm a (slow) runner!

Never was a runner, but I finished the program. I loved it and I still run 30 minutes 3 times a week. Don't be intimidated, you can definitely do it.

Hiya, I finished it a few months ago and now run 10k a few times a week, its a fab programme, stick with it and well done xx

I started C25K back in late April / early May.

One of the best things I ever did. I struggled a bit around week 3 or 4 due to some health issues but managed to finish it up in time for my first (and only, so far) 5K on June 21st.

At first I just wanted to be able to finish the 5K, but by the end of the program I was able to run it in 31:30.

The best thing was that it got me off my butt and helped me develop the running habit. I'm now running about 20 miles a week and really enjoying it.

My tips would be:

1) Make sure you have good running shoes (not just a pair of sneakers that you got from some big fitness chain store). Find a real running store and get some advice on the right shoe for your feet and running gait.

2) Take it nice and slow. Avoid the temptation to rush ahead. Make sure you take your rest days.

3) Try to walk for at least 20 minutes every day (even on rest days) it will help prevent your muscles stiffening up and getting sore.

Good luck and enjoy it! :happy:

I'm on week 7 and am a little amazed that I'm running 25 minutes in a row. Without stopping. I'm not going very fast -- no, seriously, it's pretty slow -- but I figure it's better than nothing and it's more than I was doing two months ago! I don't worry about pace or speed or how far I'm getting, just the elevated heart rate for 25 minutes. So far, so good!

I am on Day 2 of Week 3. I like it so far. My knees have been hurting so I am hoping that will stop soon!

I'm not doing C25K, but I am starting to run. My knees hurt too and I posted on the boards. Someone said to strengthen my hips because they're most likely the problem and my knees would feel better. Sure enough, it's been working, so try hip exercises.

Performing plyometric exercises will strengthen your legs, hips, calves, etc. to help you become a better, faster runner. Try doing these exercises on your off days for better results.

I started the C25K and on day 1 of week 2 my knee was bothering me during the run segments. Dumb me, I kept pushing to get through the session and by the end of the session I HAD to stop running. Tendonitis - 1 cortisone shot, 2 weeks on crutches, 3 weeks unable to work out!

I just got back to working out, no running or elliptical, so it's swimming & biking. Leg still aches, but it's bearable.

My point is, if it hurts, STOP. I wish I could go back and redo that one session. There's no telling how long before I can try again, or if I ever will be able to.

I'm on week 6, day 3. It's been getting harder, but I'm enjoying it!