I was introduced to the ‘Couch to 5k’ app by lifestyle coach Roger Wolfson, and it turned out to be one of the best apps that I have ever used. Roger posted a video at the beginning of the pandemic about how people could stay in shape and he suggested this app, which was designed to get people running. Personally I have never ran before and the thought of running 5 kilometers was a scary one. I was encouraged however at so many comments on the video, from people who were saying just how inspirational the app was and how it helped them to achieve their running dreams.
I downloaded the application there and then, and I can honestly say that I now run 5 kilometers two or three times per week. I love the idea of this app, and here is why it works for people like me, who had no running experience at all.
Realistic Beginnings
For someone who was out of shape like me, it is amazing just how few people in the fitness world actually grasp what it is like to be in that situation. I have been to many gyms and they have put together crazy programs for me which I just couldn’t do, and which then stripped me of my motivation. What I love about this program is that it was designed by a beginner, and it is perfect for other beginners. The app starts off slow and to be honest the first week involves you running for 1 minute at a time, and walking in-between. The slow start means that you get engaged and you are more motivated to do it.
Actual Improvement
The program features 3 runs per week, with a rest day in-between, and this is a great way for you to measure your progress. For example in the first week, by day 3 you can feel the improvement that you have made, in just 3 runs. By the end of the second week however, the difference is absolutely amazing when compared with the first week, and so on. Being able to actively measure your improvements is huge when it comes to motivation, and that is what keeps pushing you to go again and again.
Clear Goal
Another reason why I think that this program works so well is that there are clearly defined goals and one huge goal at the end. Each week the intensity increases and you begin to run more and walk less, each day in reality has its own goal. Whilst this is happening, something that you know the whole time is that you are eventually working towards that magic 5 kilometer goal. What I love about this is that as you are accomplishing the daily goals, you are getting closer and closer to your big goal, and that of course continues to encourage you.
This is a great app for anyone who wishes to get started with running.