“I started the couch to 5k programme in 2015. It was terrifying at the time. The thought of putting myself out there. I was a man, I could do this alone, but I wasn’t doing it alone, I was ignoring it, I was lying to myself…”I’ll do it next week” “I can just join a gym” “I don’t need that” “My knees won’t take it” “My back won’t take it” (hint: your knees and back are probably sore due to weight and lack of exercise). Thankfully my wife made me do it and I haven’t looked back since (I was perfectly pleasant when she was dragging me up there at the start). My only regret now is not doing it years ago.
“This was a big deal for me. I was one of those thirty something year olds who wasn’t paying attention to the facts. I was grossly unhealthy, overweight and under exercised. Like so many of my generation I was happy enough to buy bigger jeans instead of fixing the real issue. More importantly I’m a father now. I need to be an example to my kids, not an embarrassment when I struggle to keep up with them.
“The Couch to 5k programme with Dunboyne AC was just what I needed. It was a soft (supportive) landing. It was paced and manageable. It was the start of a journey I never thought I’d take. It led to fit4life, which has led to much more.
“Since 2015 I’ve gotten far more into this running craic. I’ve completed many 5k and 10k events, 3 half marathons, 3 triathlons and 5 duathlons (don’t anybody mention a marathon yet, it shall not be spoken of). Things I had never thought I could do.
“This all started with the couch to 5k. My physical and mental health is in far better shape and my wardrobe is no longer bursting with clown like sizes. My snoring has also stopped, which although I contest was never there, Michelle would say otherwise.
“I still struggle at times, we all fall off the wagon a little along the way, but having that training there on a Tuesday and Thursday gives me the structure I need.
“There are people like me out there. People who know every excuse under the sun to not get off their ass. You’re only kidding yourself. You can be the change you want to be. It’s hard work, but you’re worth it.”
Categories:
Couch to 5K
