Let's Talk: Couch to 5k

Running was something that I always loved to do. Albeit that first run in a while, when you have ruined your usual running routine. That run is never fun. I used to break up my revision in university with exercise, and usually my first choice would be to go for a run. I love the excuse to go out and get some fresh air and to test yourself. I had lost my way with it since finishing university and then it was straight into full time work, which did make it all the more difficult. 

Then I thought, why not try the Couch to 5K app? For those of you who don't know what this app is, it's basically a weekly plan including different lengths of runs, which build you up over time, therefore, you will eventually end up running for longer if you complete 3 runs within the week. You start with running for 1 minute, and then a 2 minute walk for example, and on the last week of the training, you run for a full 30 minutes no walk. I think you get the idea. Essentially, having a personal trainer (ish) in your ear for the duration of your run, telling you when to start running and when you can have a walking break. 

I thought this would be the best way to get back into the swing of it. This way I wouldn't go in all guns blazing for the first run, cause myself to be super stiff for the next week, and then decide I am going to pack it in again. I set myself the challenge.

I am currently on week 7 of 9 weeks and I can tell you, that I feel like it has truly got me to like running again. It's so nice to go for a run after working all day, to get outside and enjoy it, even if it is raining. It's also great to have a routine, and although I don't stick to the 'go for a run every other day' depending on the day I have had and how tired I am, but I am surprised that I have managed to make it a habit. I have been running for 7 weeks!!

If someone had told me that after 7 weeks of doing the Couch to 5K app, that I would be running quite happily for 25 minutes solid, with no break, I would have laughed. But I feel that breaking down the runs and starting small, really has had a great effect on my mind and body when it comes to running for longer. I hate the initial thought of going for a run, but I love the accomplishment that you feel when you're finally through it, and you know that you get that rest day the next day.

One thing I have also enjoyed, is trying new routes. Running in the wood was so pretty and an easy way to keep your mind off of the task at hand. After my 9 weeks, I am going to try and keep to a routine, even if it isn't a solid 30 minute run each time I go, I will be chuffed to say I actually completed the training on the app, haha. 

Have you tried Couch to 5k? What do you think of it? What's your favourite way to exercise?

Amber X