Couch to 5k Program

I know a lot of you want to run a 5k, but don’t know where to start. If you have clearance to begin a running program, then you may want to check out Couch to 5k (C25K).

What I like about this plan is that is about time and not distance. You think of running in blocks of time, like 5 minutes. Not 1/2 mile. For some it make be semantics, but for many, it is a mental change that brings success.

However, what I love about this program is that it is only 20-30 minutes a day, 3 days a week. So even with a hectic parent life, it is totally doable. Plus, if Mom and Dad are fit, you are setting a great example for your kids. I can’t wait for the day when my toddler is able to do those kid fun runs and we can make a day out of participating in a road race. (They are so much fun….Yes, really.)

It is a 9 (free) week program, with a Facebook page, Twitter account and smartphone apps for the iPhone ($2.99) and Android ($1.99). So there is great support, encouragement and accessability. They also have a treadmill version and a great forum with podcasts and more for your new 5k regime. (When you are ready, they even have a 10k program. Just sayin’.)

Also check out CoolRunning.com. They are the folks who started all of this, and they are the place to go to find that first 5k race you will be running.

You can do it. Now get started.

{Charlene has 7 marathons under her belt, but after having a baby, she had to start from square one and this got her butt in gear. She is now learning how to run with a jogging stroller, which is a separate post entirely.}