Couch to 5k!
Taking up running can seem like a scary prospect, especially if you feel out of shape or unfit.
But, did you know that regular running can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke, boost your mood and keep your weight under control?
The Couch to 5K plan is designed to get you off the couch and gradually work you up to running 5K or half an hour, in just nine weeks.
What is Couch to 5K?
NHS Choices 'Couch to 5K' is a running plan developed to help absolute beginners get into running. The beginners' running plan was developed by a novice runner, Josh Clark, who decided to write a plan to help his fiftysomething mum get off the couch and start running too. The plan involves three runs per week, with a day of rest in between, with a different plan for each of the nine weeks. Scroll down to find out more and see how the running plan works.
How does Couch to 5K work?
Probably the biggest challenge a novice runner faces is not knowing how or where to start. Often when trying to get into exercise, we can overdo it, feel defeated and give up when we’re just getting started. Couch to 5K works because it starts with a mix of running and walking, gradually building up your fitness and stamina slowly. Week One involves running for just a minute at a time, creating realistic expectations and making the challenge feel achievable from day one.
Who is Couch to 5K for?
Couch to 5K is for everyone. Whether you’ve never run before or if you want to get back into being more active, Couch to 5K provides you with a cheap and easy way of getting fitter and more healthy. If you have any concerns about beginning an exercise regime such as Couch to 5K, make an appointment to see your GP and discuss it with them first.
Click here to find out more - http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/c25k/Pages/couch-to-5k.aspx
