Couch to 5K and me

I have dabbled with running a couple of times in my life, but it never became a habit. Then, influenced by my partner and my daughter who are both very keen runners, I decided to give it another go.

My partner has run regularly throughout his adult life with the motto ‘keep moving’ – he says it’s what keeps him well physically and mentally. My daughter started running as a student, having had her own battles with mental health, and now she loves the sense of wellbeing it gives her, challenging herself to run ever-increasing distances.

While they have both run marathons and more, I am content to run 5K. So, with new running shoes and the Couch to 5K app to motivate me, I started in January 2023. Maybe not the best time to start in terms of the weather but, having just lost our beloved dog very suddenly, it was great to have a reason to get back outside.

I like having a plan to follow and I put my faith in the running app, following the schedule religiously. It might not always have been easy but I was delighted by the result – I achieved my goal of being able to run 5K!

After that, I continued to go out for a run regularly, although unfortunately more recently, a damaged ankle has meant I’m confined to walking.

It’s good to be outdoors and walking is still a great way to clear my mind, but I do miss the ‘buzz’ that running gave me. I’m looking forward to the day when I can open the app and continue my running journey and all the benefits it brings me.