From Couch to 5K

[johnjamieson]

I started running using the couch to 5k. it really works great, in the beginning if you have built up a decent cardio base from boxing it will be really easy, but follow the plan. Even though cardio wise it might be easier, your joints are probably not used to the poundage of running, and taking it slow will prevent from any injuries.

[Sven72]

Yeah thats what I was telling my self last night, didn't feel like a 'work out' but my legs definately arent used to the pounding like you said. Finished up with a few good sets of push ups and sit ups, so I could walk in the door with a bit of a sweat.

[Unanimous]

Finished up with a few good sets of push ups and sit ups, so I could walk in the door with a bit of a sweat.

Lol. Just shows you're a lot fitter than me!

Physique-wise I'm reasonably toned but fitness-wise I'm definitely found lacking!

I had my second session of week 1 of this plan this morning at 6am. Again, I had a stitch at a couple of points and also had a bit of a sweat (though I was wearing three layers on top). When I got home I took my protein drink and within a few minutes of stretching I was fine. My third and last session of week 1 is on Saturday. Because I have no work commitments at the weekend I plan to have a session on my punchbag and my weights when I get back for an extra workout.

Oddly enough though, my legs aren't hurting........yet!

[Sven72]

I'm doing my seond run tonight, woke up this morning a little sore in the shuns and a bit of calf tightness, but I did quite a bit of skipping last night as well. Looking forward to the run though its nice to get out and do some exercise rather than being stuck in a gym. I'll also try and finish off with 30 mins on the bags at home.

[Unanimous]

Had my last session of week one on saturday morning. It's getting a bit easier now, but goddammit I'm still puffing & sweating at the end! Maybe I'm pushing myself too hard.

Anyway, I'm onto Week 2 session as from tomorrow at 6am. This session increases the length of time running/jogging. Whereas week 1 was 60 seconds of running/jogging followed by walking for 90 seconds, alternating for a total of 20 mins, Week 2's sessions are 90 seconds of running/jogging followed by walking for 2 minutes, again alternating for 20 minutes.

I know it won't sound a lot to you guys but I hadn't run since school (a long time ago!) PLUS I only just gave up smoking* a couple of weeks ago.


*Apart from the 2 - 3 blunts a day which I take for medicinal purposes

[Unanimous]

Okay, started Week Two Session this morning.

The session for week two goes like this:

1. Five minute brisk walk for warm-up
2. Run/Jog for 90 seconds
3. Walk for 2 minutes
4. Alternate 2 & 3 for a total of 20 minutes

Well, my legs were actually hurting before heading out (probably due to squats done the night before) but the pain didn't feel so bad after I started jogging. I managed week two better than week one (which is the aim, right!) I never struggled to make the 90 seconds and felt well rested after the two minute walk. Also, I wasn't sweating as much when I got home and I didn't get a stitch once! Hah, improvement!!!

2 more sessions of week two (thursday and saturday morning) and then onto week three next tuesday.

I hope after the 9 week session when I'm running for 5K I can look back at this thread and laugh!

[Sven72]

going on the first seesion of my week two jog/walk in about 20 mins. I'm pumped. Shins and knee feel good, so lets see how we go.

Run Forrest Run

[Unanimous]

Run Forrest Run

Lol! Good luck

[Sven72]

and the winner was......me!

Went well, picked up the pace in the running section (i.e. I actually ran, instead of jogging) and managed to work up a sweat. Shins still a bit sore afterwards but not as bad as last week, so I think my body is adjusting. More importantly knee is holding up amazingly well.

[Unanimous]

Good on you Sven! Well, my day went a bit pants yesterday - my jog/run session was fine (as indicated by my post, 4 above this one) BUT I think I've caught some sort of bug. Almost flu-like as my body felt totally drained and I've been coughing and sneezing. Decided to have the night off training last night and, as much as it will depress me, I think I'll have to lay low tonight also so that I'm ready for my run tomorrow morning.