I’ve tried running probably three or four times in my life. Each time I quit after about 4 minutes. On a treadmill once I think I made it to 8.
I even was a member of my high school’s cross country team, but it was only because they needed one more girl on the team to qualify. I never finished a race. SAD painful memories those are…
It’s always just plain hurt to run. My knees hurt, my side cramps, I’m panting & hurting & panting & miserable. But for a reason I do not know I still want to be a runner. I think I’m curious as to why some people love it soo much, they talk about this runner’s high you get & being ‘one with the road’…there’s got to be something to it.
My girlfriend Brooke was telling me about this new marathon she’s doing & I was like, “geez, that’s so awesome! I wish I could run, really I do, but I can’t” She suggested I try ‘Couch to 5k‘. So I took a look, & it actually made a lot of sense.
“Too many people have been turned off of running simply by trying to start off too fast. Their bodies rebel, and they wind up miserable, wondering why anyone would possibly want to do this to themselves.
You should ease into your running program gradually. In fact, the beginners’ program we outline here is less of a running regimen than a walking and jogging program. The idea is to transform you from couch potato to runner, getting you running three miles (or 5K) on a regular basis in just two months.”
-from Couch to 5K
I swear that guy somehow wrote that just for me. And it sounds totally doable right? And guess what, today was Day 1 of the program & I. DID. IT. Woohoo! And I didn’t hate it! Woohoo woohoo! For week 1 you’re doing 5 minutes of walking warm-up, & then intervals of 60 sec running, 90 seconds walking for 20 minutes. Then a 5 min cool-down. I’m not gonna lie to you, my brain started trying to sabotage my run at around the 14min mark but I put on a good song & pushed through it, it was rough for maybe 2 minutes. Which brings me to my next point, if you’re still with me, there are 3 things today that made me feel like I could really embrace Couch to 5k…
1) Cute new shoes. Ridiculous sounding, I know, but hear me out. My old sneakers were 9 years old which is ridiculous in itself & speaks to my lack of cardio activity. That in itself is enough reason to buy some new ones but also they make these new feather-weight tennis shoes that were SO much easier to run in than my old, clunky, beasts of a sneaker. And yes, they’re very very pretty. And this matters to me. It motivates me, & I’m ok with that.
Adidas AdiZero Feather Running Shoe
2) The C25K app. I was wondering long & hard about how to keep track of my intervals, count in my head? No. Buy a cute new running watch? Tempting! And then I got a tweet from Angela telling me about this app that times it for you & lets you know when to switch AND you can listen to your itunes AT THE SAME TIME. $1.99 Perfection.
3) A good playlist. I’ve got to work on this one because today I just had it on general shuffle & I went from P. Diddy to Baby Genius ‘Alphabet Song’. I did find a few good ones though…
Warm-up Gorillaz: Clint Eastwood
La Rissa: I do both Jay & Jane
Diddy: Come to Me
Jerimih: Birthday Sex (remix)
Britney Spears: I Wanna Go
Cool Down Jars of Clay: Love Song for a Savior
(And yes, I’m quite aware I just put Jars of Clay & Birthday Sex in the same playlist)
So to conclude this marathon of a post (haha, see, 1 run & I’m already cleverer) I want to know 2 things from you…
Are you gonna do it with me & what’s your best workout song??
Diane
I have always wanted to run – I have a goal to run a marathon by the next milestone birthday – I will try this out! Favorite workout song is “gettin jiggy with it” by Will Smith
Natasha
Oh man, Jiggy with it is PERFECT
Zoua
I need to be more active! This sounds like a do-able plan… hopefully it’ll make me learn to love running (be more active, in general)! Losing a few pounds in the process wouldn’t hurt. π Thanks! Love your blog, especially your easy-to-follow tutorials!
Natasha
You’re so welcome! Also I thinks it’s a great beginner program. I have less than zero cardio ability
Jennie
I’ve tried this program a few times and I always manage a (100% non-running related) injury around week 5. But my husband started this and went from couch to 5k to half-marathon in about 7 months.
For workout music though– anything by Lady Gaga or Robyn… you know when you’re at a wedding reception and there are songs that you’ll stop a conversation for to hit the dance floor, because when you hear that song you *have* to dance? Those make the best workout songs.
That, and I really enjoy working out to Harry Potter audio books– focusing on the story keeps my mind not focusing on how hot sweaty gross and out of breath I am.
Natasha
Ooo, I never thought about an audio book. Although then I may just want to park myself on a bench and listen (;
Lisa
I listen to audio books when I’m at the gym. I download a book that I’ve REALLY been wanting to read and only let myself listen when I’m working out! It’s so great and I find myself staying on the elliptical and extra few minutes because I just can’t stop the book!
Bonnie
I could not identify more with your post. I also have heard for years from everyone and their mom how “fun” running was and I just don’t get it. You have inspired me to try this!!!!!!
Kara
I’ve been a long-time lurker but you got me with this one. I’m in. Downloaded the app for my phone and am going shoe-shopping tomorrow. I always try to run but totally overdo it and then quit. Excited to see if this is one I can keep up with!
Natasha
Yay!! I’m telling you, those shoes MAKE you want to run. (;
Heidi
I want to try this so bad. I am in desperate need of exercise. I have never been a runner, but for the last year or so, I have wanted to run a marathon. I need to prepare (buy shoes, playlist, etc) and maybe I can start this next week. I’ll let you know how it goes.
Angela
wow! you are a never runner to your sights on a Marathon!! I love it!! It took me a half marathon, a 10 miler and some 5ks and the start of my training for my next half to get the marathon bug! You rock!! Good luck!! Don’t give up!! Crossing the finish line is the best feeling EVER
Natasha
Oh man, I can’t wait!!!
Heidi
Okay, wow. Apparently my wording is WAY off. Maybe I should have said race instead of Marathon. I guess I don’t know the correct terminology. I will start with a 5K. I was considering the Susan G. Komen 3 day….but I would have probably died. This is a nice way to start. Thank you for the encouragement though. I appreciate it either way.
Angela
Yay!! SO glad you got the App. It makes it so much easier. Makes it mindless really.
It took me a while to love running, but now I really do. Don’t give up on it. Also, if you start getting joint pain talk to me. I have suggestions that work for me π
Angela
p.s. if you want a running partner for a 5k I am game – but only if you make super cute shirts!!
Natasha
(: I smell a DIY coming on…
Lisa
My husband and I started week 1 this week too! Today was day 2 and I’m totally with you. I HATE running but always wanted to be a runner, it’s just so much easier to run outside than to have to drive to the gym and the couch to 5k is SO great (so far, let’s see what week two has in store for me!). As far as playlists….anything up tempo, my workout playlist ranges from britney spears to ludacris to stone sour and back again!
PS: I also go from ludacris “what’s your fantasy” to DC talk when I switch to cool down…you are not alone!
Natasha
I love all these hip hop rap/christian girls, I thought I was alone on that one!
Wendy
My ipod is also a huge mix of Christian and secular music. Cracks me up to go from Selah to C,Lo (the unedited F U song). Also makes me do a bit of jumping around to skip some songs when my daughter is around. I think we should all start a little sorority – call ourselves From God to GaGa?
Lisa
Agreed!!
Start week 2 tomorrow….AND bought myself some new Nike + shoes so I can keep up with my running through my ipod!! I’m so excited to run now!
Amber
Hi! I love the Couch to 5k program! I finished my first ever 5k in May thanks to this program. It really does work. Running has always been hard for me. I could bust out 45 minutes on the elliptical at a really hard pace with no problem but would be sucking air after a couple of minutes of running. I’m constantly telling people about C25k because I really believe in it.
My current faves on my running playlist are: “The Edge of Glory” by Lady Gaga; “Raise Your Glass” by Pink; “Vertigo” by U2; “Girlfriend” by Avril Lavigne; “Harder to Breathe” by Maroon 5 (note the irony); “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers; “Here It Goes Again” by Ok Go; and “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga.
Keep us posted on your progress! I’m running a short two-mile race in September and will actually run the 5k for Race for the Cure in October.
Natasha
Oh man, you’re so inspiring me!!
Also I totally forgot but harder to breathe used to be my FAVORITE workout song, I’m adding that immediately!
Tamra
You go girl! As far as tunes, i’m a indie rock fan, but for running i consistenly find that Hey Yeah by Outkast and Let’s go Crazy by prince help me get through the rough patches!
Natasha
I forgot how much I like Outkast, thanks!
starjumper
i reeeeeally want to try this with you! but i might be on week 1 for a while… i busted my tailbone a few weeks ago and I’m trying to ease back into stuff!
Natasha
Ouch! You get to skip a week. Or three.
Dawn
My friend Nikki and I are doing the C25k too, we’ve actually signed up for a 5k race in october so that we’ll actually finish the program. So far so good, but it’s only week 1 day 2 haha! Honestly. Ke$ha gets me moving!
Natasha
Oooo, Kesha, that’s a good one. I love that crazy girl.
kelli
I’m on week 9!! Its a great way to “ease” into becoming a runner. I have NEVER been a runner before and now I love it. I’m still slower than Christmas but I can run for 30 minutes straight, so I’m. Happy with my progress! Keep it up, Natasha. You can do it!
Natasha
Yay!!! I love hearing from so many people that have made it through and still love it. 30 min straight sounds so hard but you’ve given me hope (:
Ashley
I started C25K when I was preggo, and it’s TOTALLY doable! I use the RunKeeper app because in addition to the app the website is super user-friendly, and I can track other activities like cycling. I listen to podcasts from PodRunner because they are upbeat and techno-ish with a constant BPM, which helps me keep moving. I posted on my blog weekly about my C25K, and I found it really kept me accountable. Those of us in bloggy land will be cheering you on from the interwebs!!!
Natasha
Aw thanks!
Irene
I just finished week 2 of this program! I abhor running but I like this program because it eases you into it. I actually think its kind of fun. Keep up the good work!
Natasha
Me too!
Meredith @ La Buena Vida
Haha, my playlists totally include a mix of Christian music and dirty rap. I feel ya!
I’ve done C25k before on a treadmill–I’ve been thinking of doing it outside pushing Lizzy in the jogging stroller, but we’ll see.
Also, I really like listening to The Cave by Mumford & Sons while working out!
Natasha
Cute pink double jogger is my total reward if I can get to the 5k!
Angela
get a B.O.B. seriously – best running stroller ever
Ashley
I second the B.O.B. They don’t make it in pink, but it does come in purple!
tessa
Crazy that you posted this. I am doing the same program and am really enjoying it. I kind of cheated and started on week 3 – which I know it says not to do – buuuuuut, I did anyways and haven’t paid for it yet. I figure if it gets to be too much, I can just repeat a week or something, but haven’t ran (ha!) across that yet. I can already say that I just feel better after running. I may have to get the app for it though because I always get confused at where I am, and how far I’ve ran. Maybe it’s the new baby brain, but the first day I was suppose to be running 200, walking 200, running 400, walking 400 and I did the 200s right, but instead of 400, I was running 800. I figured it out after the fact. So…yeah, something to keep track for me would be great! Keep us posted!!
Natasha
Oh man, I can’t believe you’re even trying to count it on your own, I’d be lost after the first set!
Brittany
I’m very intrigued by this! For the past three weeks or so I’ve been trying to get back into working out. I’ve been doing crunches, push-ups (or should I say fall downs), and even lifting some nifty 5lb weights because my upper body strength is close to nonexistent. I usually run on the elliptical, but I think this would be great for outside or inside! I wish that I had someone around here that would be up for morning runs when it’s cool out! This also makes me want an iPhone even more than I already wanted one (which was a lot). I need new running shoes too and those are super cute!!! I’m bookmarking both the app & site information. Maybe I can get my man to do this with me! Good luck! Keep us posted π
Natasha
Good luck to you too! I tried to get P to do it but don’t think it’s gonna happen /:
Katrina
Trust me I was you in Jan. 2010. I wanted to know why everyone liked this thing called running so much. I had a couple friends join me, and we started by just walking 3-4 miles a couple days a week. Then we added some running, and then I took off. My friends decided it wasn’t for them, but I made a goal for myself that I was going to run the Disney Half Marathon. It was the best and worst 9 months of my life. Trust me give yourself some time, work on endurance, and let all your worries go. “It is called my ALONE TIME” I don’t have to worry about my kids or husband, what I need to do around the house that day, or what my church needs of me. It is just about me and the road! The first 3-4 miles are always the hardest, but once you get past those you can go forever. Remember to keep yourself hydrated, and once your mileage is steadily increase look into GU or some type of sugar kick. I also recommend reading the book “Run like a Mother” It was one of the most enlightening books I have read. I have never thought I would even want to run a marathon, but now it is on my list before I turn 30. Oh and the most important thing… find a running buddy! Someone who will push you, but that is at the same pace as you. Good luck!!!
Natasha
Good advice! My bff is doing the disney one too!
Robin
I started couch to 5K last November and am now on ease into 10K I LOVE it! I have done four 5K’s and my next one is coming up this weekend! Good luck and talk about cute, have you seen all the adorable running skirts?
Natasha
running SKIRTS?? I had no idea such a thing existed…must investigate
Leslie
Good for you! I LOVED couch to 5k and used it to complete my first 5k at the Cherry Blossom Fest. in April! Keep at it! It’s a great little program and i’m totally addicted to running now, it’s my therapy! I just finished my first 20k and have signed up for 3 half marathons!
Good luck! I know you can do it!
LOVE the shoes! Those area all kinds of awesome!
Natasha
Geez, 20k? That sounds crazy! BUT I think that 5k Cherry Blossom Festival is totally going to be my goal, it’s perfect!
April
I’m so excited I read this post. I live in Kentucky and every year during derby week, we have the Ky derby marothon and a mini marathon. For the last few years i have said I really want to run in the mini. Although I’m an active walker, I dont run. I too have heard all the hype of running and how great you feel and the engry you get. I would love to try this. I’m inspired and motivated.
Natasha
Yay!! We’ll do it together April!
Jenn
That program sounds great, I need to get back into running but just haven’t. The BEST running song is “Fighter” by Christina Aguilera. I usually put it halfway into my playlist when I want to die and then again at the end to get me to finish… it’s that good! Good luck!
Natasha
Ooo, good one! I’m thinking a little ‘drrrty’ might not be bad either
Melissa R
I’m in!!! Ive gotta get in shape for my wedding in April!
Andrea
I’ve tried to do C25K a few times, I usually wimp out around week 4 with shin splints and such. New shoes helped as well. I think I might give it another go though!
Emily P
I ABSOLUTELY love this!! I am so going to do this, but not yet. I’m pregnant now and haven’t exercised in a loooong time, so it might not be the best… or maybe it would. π I’m a really not a runner and I’m excited to see how this works for you and others involved.
sarah
how exciting! i have been all over this journey in the last year+ and the beginning is such a fun place to be. i dont have any perfect songs to recommend, but i do have some blogs that i think are a great read if youre starting out.
one is anothermotherrunner.com i saw someone mentioned their book already, “run like a mother”. and they also have a brand new online radio show that you can download as podcasts that are such fun and really informative.
also, doctormama.blogspot.com has some great posts dedicated to beginner runners. she is so funny. and also, really pushes you to do it.
since july 14, 2010 i have started working out, lost over 60 pounds, picked up running and im running my first race, a half marathon, next saturday. its all blogged (as a means of keeping myself accountable along the way) at asecondtry.blogspot.com.
my best advice? youve already heard it, but a great fitting pair of running shoes, and gear you feel comfortable in. i wear leggings or my pink pleated running skirt and love them both.
good luck! i am excited to see your progress!
Natasha
Thanks! I’m going to check those sites out ASAP!
Brooke
YAY! You’re going to feel sooo good, and in hot pink shoes, no less. These songs get me moving: “Be My Thrill” by the Weepies, “Girlfriend” by Avril, “369” by Cupid, “Gossip Folks” by Missy, “Animal” by Neon Trees, “Maria” by Blondie, “Hotel Yorba” by the White Stripes.
Now we need to plan a 5k to run together! Disney Princess or Gasparilla, maybe?
Also, I love all my lululemon running-wear. (Sorry, P.)
Natasha
Oh man, I do love me some LuLu. And let’s do Gasparilla, what a great goal! I’ll be in town, it give me plenty of time, yes!!! Let’s!!
Melissa Petrini
I did this program about a year after I had Ella. It really does work. I am like you and I was never a good runner. I would try, quit, try, quit. I was jealous when my husband (who’s in the army) would go to PT and run for hours. Huh? How is that even possible? So I tried the C25K and by the 6th week I was running the 3.1 miles without stopping. I didn’t even need to go to the 9 weeks to complete it! Best of luck. And I love those shoes. I would start doing cardio again if I had those.
Jen
My power song for marathon training – Survivor by Density’s Child. Or SexyBack by JT
Good luck with your training. I also suggest going to a running store and getting fitted for shoes. They make all the difference. They’ll let you know if you need stability, neutral or any other funky shoes.
Jennifer
C25K is the BEST! I have actually used the program several times, both as an initial intro to running and as a way to ease back in after having a baby. I am currently 3 weeks from giving birth, so cannot join you guys this time ) : but will absolutely be doing C25K as soon as I can this fall.
I was one who hated running until I used this program and now I love it and really, really miss it. I even take my kids with me and have done several 5K races and a 10K Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning (perfect way to start that day of gluttony!).
Good luck all and have fun… you will be amazed with yourselves!
Krystal
There is a Kentlands 5K coming up in September – might be a perfect opportunity to put the C25K to the test!
Natasha
Ooo, September huh? I don’t know if I can be ready by then, I’m only at 1 & 1/2 mi!
Miranda
I think I just might try this with you! My husband has been running for about 2 years now and I’m so jealous! π I’ve been wanting to get into it and a friend of mine told me about Couch to 5K before. Thanks for the motivation! π
Andrea
I have had the same desire to run but have never been fit enough to do so. I swear, I have many friends who discuss their daily running and training rituals on FB and it makes me wonder if I could ever get to that point too. If a Biggest Loser contestant can eventually run a marathon, I would hope I could too. Of course a trainer constantly with you would TOTALLY help. I hope the App is enough motivation. Good luck! Keep us updated.
Ada
Natasha-you can TOTALLY do it! I started the same way and could barely jog a few blocks without wanting to fall over and die. Exactly a year later, I did my first 1/2 marathon (Disney PRINCESS 1/2 marathon…which was a blast! I wore a home-made tutu and I know that’s right up your alley!) and I’m training for my 2nd this fall.
Just keep at it, sloooowly, and you’ll be on the right track. The C25K is PERFECT! Also, look into a local running group too! If there’s a running shop near you (Fleet Feet or Charm City are close to me), they usually have beginner running groups that are SO helpful. The group atmosphere makes it fun and you get a ton of great advice from other runners. My motivators are the same-colorful outfits and awesome playlist. My go-to’s are Rhianna and any 90’s “hip-hop” or “rap”. Motownphilly, Return of the Mack…haha!
Also, invest in some good socks to help prevent blisters =) Nothing makes me want to avoid a run like a nagging blister!
Have fun with it and keep us updated!!! =)
Yeni
Great post!!! I have been walking for almost and month and didnβt know how to transition into running….will definite try out this program let you know how it goesβ¦.
Lila Jo
I have been a runner off and on, I ran through High School and have gone in spurts (between pregnancies) of being quite active. I tried to pick it up again this spring after my little boy was born, but have had a hard time healing from this c-section and have not been able to until recently. I am back at it and ready to lose this baby weight, I think it’s so important to take some time to get your body back after baby! I find that tracking my miles on DailyMile helps keep me motivated & is great to keep track of speed progress (which I am hoping for!).
morning c.
Yay for you! I can’t wait to get back into running after my first little monster is born (any day now). Best running advice I ever got was to listen to your body, especially that little voice that keeps you safe. You’ll learn the difference between your brain wanting to stop and your body needing to stop. Everyone walks. Everyone rests. These things do not take away from the fact you are a runner. And yes, you are one! Already! You got out there!
I recommend “Halo” by Beyonce for a warmup song, “Awake My Soul” by Mumford and Sons and “Cosmic Love” by Florence and the Machine for jogging songs. I also sometimes like to listen to the Last of the Mohicans soundtrack if I am trail running. π
If you have time for books, The Runner’s World Complete Book of Running for Women is a great reference. It has training plans listed in it as well for beginners through advanced. Also, “Born to Run” by Christopher McDougall is an extremely well written and highly motivating book.
Karen
I am always SO tempted to try this. I always think that being a “runner” would be great — but then hate doing it every time I try. Good for you for starting this! I’ve had this site bookmarked for ages…maybe it’s time to give it a try.
Jill Deibler
A good work out mix is ESSENTIAL!
Anything by Robyn
Party Hard- Andrew WK. It’s heavy but this song won’t let you quit running, even if you’re dying.
Roam- B52’s
Till the World Ends- Britney
Fancy Footwork- Chromeo
Keep Forgetting- The Cinematics
Bandages- Hot Hot Heat
Oh My God- Ida Maria
Laid- James
Walking on Sunshine- Katrina and the Waves
A dash of Ke$ha and/or Lady Gaga and/or Madonna
Goodbye to you- Scandal
Cool Down:
The Cave- Mumford and Son
Break it Down- Tears for Fears
Right Thru Me- Nicky Minaj
Pumpkinbear
I LOVE my Couch to 5K! I’m currently at the 9-minute mark, which is the longest time that I have ever run for my entire life. It’s also important to note that there are a lot of different Couch to 5K programs out there–mine starts even slower than yours, and focuses entirely on time (I wouldn’t know 200 yards if it hit me on the butt!)–and you don’t really need to use it just to get ready for a 5K, which you already know. The goal line for my program is a 30-minute run–I run so super-slow that I wouldn’t be surprised if that was NOT 5K for me, but the ability to run for 30 minutes a few times a week seems like a good, healthy goal, so that’s what I’m focused on being able to do.
cheryl denise
cute shoes! and music ALWAYS helps keep me running longer!
a peek of chic
Nelly
Good for you! I just joined the gym again this past Wednesday. I’m FORCING myself to go during my lunch hour from work.. so far, so good! Nicki Minaj – SuperBass and Nicole Scherzinger – Right There are top on my current workout playlist!
Emily
I’m starting on monday!!! My two best friends and I made a pact to start this program this week! (check out our pact picture on my blog (just like we used to do in college, take a picture of us holding a sign to force ourselves to actually do something!). Pray that my lungs hold out though… I have asthma but I think I can do it. I’m planning on using the C25k podcasts. Haven’t downloaded them yet… I should get on that! π
Jessica
Nat, can I call you Nat? π
I feel like you are speaking directly to me tonight. I have always been a slender girl who loves to eat (not rubbing it in) that people assume is fairly athletic. I hate to sweat, let alone RUN! But I am definitely feeling the pressure as I age (hit the big 3-0 this year) and have had 2 kids. I know it is the right thing to do for myself, just to get a healthy heart. I bought some new Asics, and even created an account at map my run… But I just don’t have the motivation still! I would like to go for a run with my friends (they have all hopped on the bandwagon) but I feel foolish. After running for 3 minutes, my chest is burning and I’m ready to walk… let alone fitting in the time with my 2 kiddos.
So this is it. I’m going to do the C25K…. Thanks for the motivation!!
I’m going to suggest: Cypress Hill- Jump around!
Allison
Hey Nat! Last fall I started the C25K program and it did wonders for me. I’m down 30 lbs. (with effort on diet also) and this past Sunday I completed my first sprint triathlon!! Minus winter, I try to run in one 5K race a month to keep it fun (and to collect t-shirts, lets be honest). I hope you enjoy the program and stick with it. Even though you are beautiful and not in need of losing weight, being fit will do so much for energy with your girls (and hubby wink wink).
One quick recommendation for you: if you get more into running, go to a running store (I know there are a lot down in your area) and have them analyze your stride to help you pick out the best shoe fit. It made all the difference for me and the sneakers weren’t any more expensive than at a chain store, and the “analysis” is free. Happy running!
Ana
I started this yesterday (thanks to you) and when my husband came home, he looked at me and said, “Did Natasha put this on her blog?” I stood there and laughed… I wonder how he knows I got this from you… oh yea, every time your write about your fabulous ideas, I always try them (especially your recipes).
You are truly AWESOME!!!! You inspire so many people, its amazing! Thank you π
Natasha
You are so sweet! I think I’m going to start a little public running journal so we can all start together…
Alexandria
I’ve never been a runner of any kind, my husband is but I abhor it. Until around March right before we moved to California I ran with my husband for a week until I sprained my ankle. I went & got new cute & butt toning running shoes & have yet to put them on to actually run. But the couch to 5K thing does sound intriguing so maybe I should try it.
And PS. Major throw back to my youth group days to hear you mention Love Song for a Savior. WOW!
Bonnie
I’ve always hated running but after losing most of my baby weight then plateauing for like 6 months, I decided I needed to run it off. I started the couch to 5k program a few months ago and now go running 3 times a week. It’s great! I actually like it now and I’ll be running my first 5k in October.
Bonnie
I LOVE LOVE LOVE the pink shoes! I can totally relate to your inner dilemma with running. Back in school, I HATED running! I thought a mile was torture! Then I went to college and gained some weight and during my quest to get back in shape, I added running to my regimine and ended up loving it, but sadly I don’t run regularly and the last pair of running shoes I bought was before I got pregnant and my daughter is 3 and 1/2… oh and ps I am loving Pinterest!
Christina
I just wrote about awesome running shoes and trying to work up to doing a 5k this fall- check it out!
Brittini
YOU GO GIIIIIRL! I know this concept seems totally obvious, but the more you run the less painful it is. It’s really true. It gets a little easier every time. The other thing I recommend is to consider running as a family. Would your husband join in on this challenge??? I promise it will become a completely different experience for you. I refuse to run by myself. It starts to feel like a chore… just one more thing I have to get done. But when we go as a family, its an experience. Something we are out doing. Together. My husband and I load up our girls [ages 4 and 1] in our double jogger, pack them some snacks, and hit the pavement. I wont lie, pushing a jogging stroller makes running significantly harder. But it’s worth it. We are getting in shape and teaching our girls to be active as well.
Another thing that helps me is picking a destination. Sometimes we jog to the park and back. Which our kids love. Sometimes down to the grocery store to pick up a few things. Plus this way you are saving yourself the trip and gas to go later on.
p.s. I have sassy running shoes too! They are nikes, gray with neon pink on them. And I swear I fun faster in them! π
marisa
I started last week. Love it so far!! I have been shufflin’ to Rock Party Anthem!
Cathy
Natasha, Reading this blog is really what I’ve been feeling for years. I’ve never been a runner and have always felt like I can’t run but for some reason it’s the one thing that I would love to accomplish. It’s been on my bucketlist for awhile now but the new shoes I just bought are still sitting in the box : ( Gotta see if I can find this app and check it out!
Bailey
Someone may have written this by now but Christina Aguilera’s ‘Fighter’ is the best running song EVER!! I actually find myself smiling when it comes on, and I’m a new runner too, so not a lot of smiling is going on during runs! :p
Maritza
WOW.. just read this now.. and i definitely get how your brain can try to sabotage your run. My sabotager is my darn knee, it starts hurting like crazy.. and i know i should probably get it checked out, but i’m too lazy to go to the Doc. :-X
But my fav. running songs are any thing by Papa Roach.
MIMS- “move if you wanna” is great too π
Drowning pool- “let the bodies hit the floor”
i personally love metal/ rock/ punk type music to run <3
I hope you're still on track with this π