Couch to 5K

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I saw that a new local running club was starting a C25k program and I thought I'd not be able to complete that, I'd never attempted to run before but thought I'd give it a try. From the first session I knew I was going to be completely supported by the helpful leaders and maybe I would be able to to run 5k none stop by the end of the 9 weeks. Each session built up gradually and the whole group supported each other when we weren't sure if we would be able to run the increasing times. However, we always managed it, mind over matter and teamwork got us through. I look back now at all my running achievements since completing C25k and all the lifelong friends I've made, so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone and went for it.

  C25K with the Dynamos isn't just about getting into running. It's about so much more than that. The Dynamos has given me so much that I wasn't expecting. Ive fallen in love with running, completed the C25K with a fantastic group of people who I now consider friends, run races (with more to come this year) and the whole Dynamos family from run leaders to all the runners is just amazing. The support from each and every member is like nothing I have experienced before. And it's not just about the running. The C25K and the Dynamos has given me a whole new friendship group, with a fantastic social side which isn't just about the runners, but about your family too. It's always nerve wracking doing something new, or joining a new club, but no matter what doubts you have, just do it. You won't regret it. The Dynamos is more than just a running club, it's so much more!

Are you considering doing the C25K course but worried that there's no way you'd be able to do it? I thought exactly that back in 2021 when I decided to do C25K with DDRC.

You start off the first week doing 1 minute runs with walks in between, and build up to a 30 minute run at the end of week 9. I really did find those initial 1 minute runs hard and didn't think I could do it, but with the support of the others in the course and the amazing run leaders I persevered. I'm so glad I did though.

When I'd finished the course I still didn't find running easy but decided to keep running with the club because it was great running with my new friends and I wanted to get to a point where I could run 5k without feeling like I was about to die and also be able to chat to friends whilst running along (I was quite in awe of those who were able to talk and run at the same time 😂).

With perseverance I got to that point, even though I still class myself as a slow runner.

I've continued to push myself and amazed everyone that knows me by completing Leeds Half Marathon in May 2023!

So, if you're thinking of doing C25K but are worried about whether you'll be able to do it, then be brave and give it a go. If I can do it, then you can too 😊

 I retired a few years back - and found myself very overweight, unfit and struggling with my motivation to get active. I joined the Dynamos and with their support completed the C25K program. Much to my surprise, I then became a strong 5k runner with the club. Two years later, I still struggle with my motivation - but the run leaders and members of the club are so supportive that I have continued to keep running. As a result, I’m still 5k fit, my weight is under control and I feel so much better about myself. Not bad for a retired 61 year old.  

  In September 2021, I joined Drighlington Dynamos Running Club for their Couch to 5k program with the goal of participating in the Total Warrior race the following June.  

At the time, I would have struggled to run even the length of my own street, however with support and motivation from the Run Leaders' and fellow runners, I completed the program in November 2021 and really started to enjoy running - something which I never thought I’d say!  

After now completing several 10k races and a couple of half marathons with DDRC, I can honestly say I couldn’t have done that without the brilliant C25K program run by the Dynamos.

  I was a bit nervous at first but joining the DDRC C25K was the best decision I made in 2023. The support from run leaders, fellow C25K members & the whole Dynamos family was amazing from the very beginning. I've made some good friends, improved my fitness & found a great way to forget about the stresses of life.

If someone had told me back in January that I would do York 10k & Abbey Dash I would have laughed at them but I did, thanks to the Dynamos. There's a great social side too, if you want to join in. Be warned though, it's a bit addictive.