Exercise. "Couch to 5K" Running Program

Not everyone is a runner - I certainly wasn't a runner when a few friends agreed to run an 8K together... at the bar. Yeah, after a few beers, it's easy to be convinced into running, so I agreed.

Luckily the instigator actually was a "real" runner and shared a few training programs, since there was no way I could just hop up and run a 8km/5mile race.  One of the programs developed by Cool Running was called "Couch to 5K" - the title sums it up and yes, it REALLY works.  I encourage anyone to read up on it and learn why it has been so successful.  I was always (naively) hitting the treadmill on high and disappointed that I couldn't even run a mile so I'd give up.  This program gradually works you up to running - the right way.  Basically you start off walking with a little running in between, and fade to running with a little walking in between and before you know it, you are running full out.
Eventually we all trained ourselves up to running a half marathon race together.  Did you catch that - a half marathon! I loved running and I loved being a runner.

Unfortunately, I did not stay a runner.  I let it slide away but this time I knew where to start. I downloaded the free version of an app called C25K Free to help me put one foot in front of the other and hopefully get a decent jog going.

Just completed Day 1 of the program.  It's the perfect app for this running program.  You can have your jams in the background and then the little app voice lets you know when to walk or run.  It's super easy to stay focused.  When I used the Couch to 5K program, I found myself always staring at the timer, counting down until I needed to switch into a run or a walk.  Very excited to use this app!

Don't let me fool you - I hated running.  If I can grow to love it, anyone can.