I did C25K for the first time probably around 2007. I loved the confidence it gave me! It was challenging but enough to ignite a passion for running. I ran regularly for a good year, but then stopped because I moved cross country and my routine just wasn't there. I started back up at the beginning of this year and did my own modified version of C25K... basically I just took walking breaks when I needed them for a while. Eventually I stopped needing them for the most part. I think the most important thing is to be patient with yourself and trust that you will get stronger with practice!

I did it last year and consider myself a success. I didn't repeat any weeks and I even missed a few days (maybe 3?) and continued on anyway with the missed days.

I graduated last May and then worked my way up to running 5 miles at a time. I've taken the last few months off, but am looking at adding some running back in to my routine.

Here is some advice:

Go slooooow. The first few weeks were hard for me, but I was also running a lot faster. When I got up to the longer runs, my speed dropped down to 4.5 mph. I didn't care how tired I was, I was determined to finish even if I was running at 4 mph. (4mph is where I can't really walk anymore and have to run, this may vary for others)

Every day is different - you might have a lousy Day 1 and the Day 2 run seems easy. You just never know. I had some horrid runs at 4 mph feeling like I was going to die, and the next one was a breeze.

Don't be afraid of the 20 minute run. You'll be able to do it. Just go sloooow. If you are tired, slow down. It's actually quite a bit easier to keep running for 20 minutes than get your body to start/stop all those times.

Check out www.runningintoshape.com for podcasts that tell you the times to stop/start running. I used these when I was outside. When I was on the treadmill I just watched the clock and kept a little post-it note reminding me of the routine.

You might want to take pics of your legs before you start. They WILL change shape and that can be motivating!

Good luck!

I just started C25K today-- I thought I was going to die, but I pushed through it and felt SO good afterwords. I think I went a little fast today, but it felt good. I'm going skiing all day tomorrow, so let's hope that my legs won't be too sore to do W1D2 come Tuesday