Many people find it hard to get into a regular fitness routine- and I get it! It can be so hard to prioritise exercise when there are a million and one things to do every day.
However, a few years ago I started the Couch to 5K plan- and it helped me start to introduce an activity I love into my life.
This plan allowed me to get active and try out a new hobby without investing too much of my time or money.
Since then, I've continued to run. I've competed in half-marathons and I've even run The Great North Run.
Running has been such an important part of my life- and it all started with the 9-week Couch to 5K plan!
In this blog post, find out a bit more about the Couch to 5K plan, including a few big benefits of trying out this exercise routine in 2023.
What is Couch to 5K?
Couch to 5K is a free programme that allows people of any level to get active. Over the course of 9 weeks, you'll build up to running a full 5K.
The plan involves running 3 times a week, with a rest day in between each day.
Every week has a different schedule and different running exercises, to help you mix up your fitness routine and keep it exciting from week to week.
If you don't know where to start, this is the plan for you!
Couch to 5K allows anyone to learn how to run, whether you've run in the past or you're not currently exercising at all.
For many people, it's the fear of something new that puts them off getting active- especially if they don't want to invest lots of time or money in a new activity.
Couch to 5K is a great solution!
Why You Should Try Couch to 5K in 2023
Couch to 5K is an important scheme that encourages people to get active- and it definitely helped me get into running a few years ago!
Below, I've put together 5 reasons why you should try Couch to 5K this year.
1. It gives you structure
The Couch to 5K plan is a great way to get into regular exercise because it gives you a proper structure. It allows you to follow a guided plan.
The original Couch to 5K plan was actually created by a new runner, Josh Clark, so you know that it's structured in the best way for someone just starting out.
The plan also gives you specific goals to meet. This is so important if you're starting out a new activity, as it helps you identify where you are right now and where you could be after completing each week.
2. It's simple!
One of the best reasons to try out Couch to 5K in 2023 is its simplicity!
Everything is broken down for you, including an overview of what exercises you'll be doing week by week and what you can expect.
After you complete one week, you can move on to the next, and then the next- until you've reached 9 weeks.
You're not thrown in at the deep end. The plan is based on your running level at each stage until you can successfully run 5K at the end.
Although it might be hard to get started, the Couch to 5K scheme gives you chance to follow super simple steps to build up your running strength, stamina and confidence.
3. Anyone can give it a go
Possibly one of the best things about the Couch to 5K plan is that anyone can give it a go.
If you used to run but you've taken a long break, or you've never been running before- that's okay!
The Couch to 5K plan gives anyone the chance to learn how to run a 5K race, encouraging people of all levels to get active.
I love this aspect of the scheme! It's a great way to promote health and fitness in a positive way, and it breaks down that first barrier to exercise for those who aren't used to getting active.
4. It's good for you
Running is a great activity to stay fit. It can help you lose weight and improve your heart health.
As well as the clear benefits of getting active, the Couch to 5K plan is also great for your mental health. It gives you a goal, helping you prioritise exercise and self-care everyday.
Exercise is good for your mind, as it releases endorphins. It also gives you a break from screens, work or anything that's on your mind.
Running can also boost your confidence and self-esteem!
5. It's free!
Let's be honest, everyone loves a freebie! The Couch to 5K plan is a completely free programme, giving anyone the chance to get into running this 2023.
If you don't have a lot of time or money to dedicate to your fitness routine, Couch to 5K is a great choice.
You can take it at your own pace, and you don't have to spend any money to get started.
I really recommend trying out Couch to 5K if you want to get active in 2023! It's a fun and simple way to challenge yourself and get into running.
It really helped me create a fitness routine I love, and I think it's a super beneficial scheme for anyone looking to try out running this year.
Have you ever tried Couch to 5K? Let me know in the comments!
Love, Sarah xoxoxo
