Me

The Color Run 5K

I’m a new runner. I’m not even really a runner yet — I’m only on week four of a Couch to 5K program. My sister, Ashley, is even less of a runner than I am. She’s making up her own program by running on a treadmill to Ke$ha (I’m sure it’s a totally sound training program, sis). Yet I convinced her to join me for The Color Run!

I figured it would be a great first 5K, because it’s not a true race. It isn’t timed and it’s all about the experience of ending up doused in color as you’re pelted by volunteers while you run/jog/walk past intermittent checkpoints. Fun!

It had started raining the day before and cleared up right before the 5K started. The rain then stayed away just long enough to douse us as we walked from the L back to my house.

Raindrops Keep Falling on My Color-Soaked Shoes

Now, question for people that can actually run longer than 3 minutes straight. It gets easier, right? I’m trying so hard, but it’s really difficult. My goal is to actually run a 5K.

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  • katie
    October 18, 2012 at 4:15 pm

    yes, it SO is! My husband and I ran our first 5K together at the Color Run (in Birmingham… in the outskirts of a hurricane!) I managed to run half of it and less than 1.5 months later I can do the whole gosh darn thing! Next up, 10K!

    As a little motivator, I get a dollar for each mile I run towards fancy-coffee drinks and shoes… not a bad motivator!

  • stacy
    October 18, 2012 at 4:17 pm

    Nicole, its been too long since I last visited your site. First I want to say, YOU LOOK GREAT! I love your long hair and you look tiny. Two, I am so glad you did the color run! Doing my first one on Dec 2nd and I can hardly wait, running another in March in Austin with a whole group of people from Pinterest. Wont that be fun! and 3) it gets easier … somewhat, but for those of us who running doesnt come naturally it will always be a commitment. That’s the nicest way I can think of putting it, but yes you will get there! and you will run that whole 5k. So proud of you

  • Heather
    October 18, 2012 at 4:18 pm

    Yes! It gets easier! I also did the Couch to 5k program earlier this year. If you are consistent with the program, you will be able to run your next 5k. I was pretty much sedentary when I started, but I did what the program says and became so encouraged with my success that it caught on in other parts of my life. And remember – any exercise is better than no exercise. You’re lapping everyone sitting on their couches!

  • Alicia D.
    October 18, 2012 at 4:19 pm

    I don’t think it gets easier, but you get stronger and have better endurance so it doesn’t hurt as much. I answered you on Twitter when you asked about the program, I used it to train for my first 5K a few years ago, and then have done the program again after a long period of not running. It really does work great for building you up to running the whole thing.

  • Bridget Stachowski
    October 18, 2012 at 4:21 pm

    I love the Couch to 5K program –and it does get easier. Note the program really ups the ante around week 6 or 7, but keep with it and your next 5K will be great. Need to see if the color run happens in NYC!

  • Rebekah Wolf
    October 18, 2012 at 4:26 pm

    That looks like a rad 5K. I ran my first marathon a couple of years ago and was not a runner prior to training for it. I went from couch to 26.2 miles in about six months. Running doesn’t come naturally for me and many days I HATED it. But some days it felt incredible. If you’re like me, taking even a small break from running is a major setback, so keep at it. It’s helpful to have a good running partner who has a similar pace. And for the days you can’t run with a buddy, having some good podcasts queued up is key. Don’t get frustrated. If I can do it, anyone can.

  • Melissa
    October 18, 2012 at 4:26 pm

    It gets WAY easier! Several years ago I thought a 5k was brutal and the extent of any running now I run alf marathons. Stick with it and it will get way easier. That color run is a blast huh!

  • Brenda
    October 18, 2012 at 4:27 pm

    I loved (well that is a strong word, because I still don’t LOVE running) the Couch to 5K program. I am overweight, have never been a runner, but I got to the end and was able to jog for 30 minutes (not quite 5K because I was so slow, but I jogged the whole freekin 30 minutes).

  • eskimo*rose
    October 18, 2012 at 4:30 pm

    OMG, how much more fun must running be, if you get sprayed in colours while you’re doing it!!

  • Melissa
    October 18, 2012 at 4:32 pm

    Way to go! Yes it definitely get’s better! I always find that the first few minutes of running kind of suck until my body gets used to the activity and then the rest of the run is not bad. I probably went through the Couch to 5K program 3 times before I actually continued to run consistently. The more I ran, I figured out how to get in a zone and actually enjoy the workout. The couch to 5K is a great way to start running too, because it’s a slow progression, so you don’t get down about not being able to run any sort of distance right away. Good luck with your training!

  • Erica { EricaDHouse.com }
    October 18, 2012 at 4:32 pm

    Lol I started running in Feb and I STILL can hardly run one full mile without stopping! My usual routine is to run 3-4 miles doing 2 minutes 30 seconds on, and 30 seconds of walking. It’s taken me months to even work up to that!

  • Marlena
    October 18, 2012 at 4:32 pm

    It totally gets easier. I did the Couch to 5K program for two summers and ran 3 5Ks. Before that, I couldn’t run down the block. It really does work. Have fun! And congrats on your first race bib!

  • Meredith
    October 18, 2012 at 4:43 pm

    Awesome! Color Me Rad was my first 5K this year and it is a great way to get started! I hated running prior to giving it another try in April and this time it stuck – I just finished my first half marathon this past weekend. The Couch to 5K never really worked for me – just getting out there and running was what really worked. I really loved the me time and although it is far from easy, it’s a great challenge and a way to really spend some time enjoying outside. That being said – I’m scared of this winter in New England, I hate the treadmill (dreadmill) and am worried we’re going to have a really cold winter!

  • cindy
    October 18, 2012 at 4:45 pm

    Hi Nicole! It totally gets easier!!! So happy for you that you started running. I would not have qualified myself to be a runner until recently. But early on over the summer, I started running at a very small pace. I ran 2 minutes on and walked 1 minute. I did that for about 2.5 miles. Gradually, I tried to go a little further. So I’d pace myself to get to 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 7, 10 and eventually got to 15. It was such an awesome feeling! I ran my second 5k early September and this time, I actually ran the entire time! It was truly exhilarating!

    But I’ve talked to other runners and found out that there will be some hard days. Sometimes, you just can’t run the full length you want to and there’s no shame in walking for a minute to catch your breath or let that cramp ease up a bit. And there are days when I feel like I have 50 lb weights tacked onto each ankle making it so difficult to run!

    I promise you that if you try to run/walk consistently, you will get there! And it’s awesome!

    I’m running the 15k Hot Chocolate in a few weeks and I know I won’t run the entire time, but it’ll be an honest feat for me.

  • Heather
    October 18, 2012 at 5:03 pm

    I used a program from the Runner’s World website where you start by running for one minute then walking for two. You slowly work up until you can run for 30 minutes and then walk for one. It does get easier as your heart, lungs, and muscles get stronger. It’s good that it’s hard–it means your exerting yourself!

    • Heather
      October 18, 2012 at 5:06 pm

      It means *you’re* exerting yourself. Darn it.

  • R. Michelle
    October 18, 2012 at 5:03 pm

    Yes!!! it gets easier. January ’12 I started with C25K and kept adding to it, eventually graduating to the Train Like a Mother book’s half marathon training program and RAN – the entire way – the Disneyland half marathon in September. I was not speedy but I did it (hopefully with speed work I can start to shave minutes by my next run). Happy 30th birthday to myself :) (and my 2 year old got to tag along, so it was win-win for all).

    I had never, ever run before in my life. Even in HS I dreaded the 1 mi run day in P.E.

  • Rita
    October 18, 2012 at 5:19 pm

    It gets much easier! No, not really, you just get better at coping with it :)

    My trick is to distract myself with the different projects I have going on.

    Also, I run with the dog so that’s great to distract myself. Can’t think too much about myself when I have to make sure he doesn’t rush to other dogs!

  • Katie
    October 18, 2012 at 5:21 pm

    Nicole, yes it gets better! I started the couch to 5k program and i was pathetic… and i hate running! But i’ve stuck to it and its getting way easier! i’m not finished with the program but i’ve gotten up to running 8 minutes straight! Good music and good shoes makes all the difference so make sure you make a good playlist! and if you need to repeat a few days on the program its fine!

    and ps, you’re looking great!

  • Kristen
    October 18, 2012 at 5:29 pm

    Yes it gets easier. I’m currently doing the C25K program with my sister and some co-workers and the program is amazing. We plan to run our first 5k on Thanksgiving day at our cities Turkey Trot. We also plan on going to the color run in Chicago next year! Looking forward to that. Keep at it I love how the program prepares you for longer and longer run intervals.

  • sarah
    October 18, 2012 at 5:38 pm

    It gets easier and actually becomes ENJOYABLE! I started with a couch to 5k program in March and my first half marathon is this weekend. I am addicted and love to hear of other moms who are getting out there and showing our kids that health and time to do your own thing is a priority! Good for you…congrats!!

  • Krista
    October 18, 2012 at 5:45 pm

    I’ve been running for a loooong time and I can attest that it definitely gets easier! I think the biggest mistake that new runners make is trying to go too fast, so slow down while you are building up your endurance. You can always work on getting faster after you can run for a solid 30 minutes. Doctor Mama has lots of great advice for new runners (or maggots, as she lovingly refers to them): http://doctormama.blogspot.com/2006/05/listen-up-maggots.html is a great place to start.

  • Jen Serafini
    October 18, 2012 at 5:53 pm

    This looks so fun! I definitely have to sign up next year

  • Abbi
    October 18, 2012 at 5:55 pm

    I’ve always thought that something magical happens at 3 miles…your breath gets easier and your legs get into their stride. Keep it up!

  • Jessie {My Mod Style}
    October 18, 2012 at 6:07 pm

    I think this is the perfect 1st race because it’s fun. Leaves you with a very good experience for the first time. :) I’m so proud of you. I need to make a life list like you have. It’s very inspiring. I actually started cycling this year,….man it’s hard!!! I hope to climb to the top of the Rocky Mountain Summit next year. It’s a hard goal, but I think you can do anything that you put your mind to!

  • alexandra @ sweet betweens [blog]
    October 18, 2012 at 6:29 pm

    Congratulations! I’m about to run/walk the Color Run this weekend in Nashville! I’m a non-runner turned occasional-runner thanks to the Couch to 5K program. I grew up with a knee deformity of sorts that kept me from being too athletic and had me undergo 3 surgeries in high school. I finally said “screw it” to the no running/jumping clause from my doctor and got started running last year.

    Honestly, after doing two Couch to 5K programs and running a handful of 5Ks and one 6K since, I don’t think it necessarily gets easier. As one of your earlier commenters said, it may not get easier, but you definitely build up your strength and endurance. It always still takes me about 1 – 1 1/2 miles to warm up enough to not feel the pain in my hips, ankles, knees, etc. and sort of hit my stride enough to where I can finish a 3-4 mile run and be proud of myself.

    I think it’s important to be consistent. Running is something you can just get up and do tomorrow even if you haven’t done it for a couple months, but the consistency helps you get into your stride, pace, rhythm, etc. sooner than not. And I’ve found for me that accountability is huge. If I have at least one run a week with a group or friend I find that I’m more likely to also run once or twice on my own so that I’m in shape and can keep up on that group run.

    Congrats on your first 5K! And here’s to many many more! :)

  • AimeeWrites
    October 18, 2012 at 6:54 pm

    I can’t run, due to knee damage, but I send you to my sister’s blog as an example of YES, it DOES get easier! She began running this year, has already run several 5k’s, and is now training for a half marathon. You can do it!

    You can find her here: https://shapelysharkie.wordpress.com/

  • Dana @ This Silly Girl's Life
    October 18, 2012 at 6:57 pm

    OMG, this looks like so much fun!

  • RobinD.
    October 18, 2012 at 7:18 pm

    omg I AM SO IMPRESSED! I did the couch to 5K thing with my husband and then I switched over to zumba and other cardio classes because running was just too hard :/ but my husband runs about 40 minutes almost every day now. He says it is still hard, but it feels so good afterwards and that makes it worth the pain.
    Me, I’d rather dance hard for an hour.

  • Kristina
    October 18, 2012 at 7:46 pm

    Looks like so much fun! Yes, running does get easier. I “ran” in Chicago’s corporate challenge this spring but hadn’t really trained so I ended up walking part of it. I’m running in the Hot Chocolate 5K in a couple weeks and actually tried. I actually managed to run the full 5Ks during a practice run the other day and felt like I could keep going afterwards! And this was after not being able to run a half mile straight. I found that the couch to 5K thing didn’t really work for me, instead I just started off running as far as I could, and then slowly increasing that amount each time I went running. It only took me two weeks from huffing and puffing after 1 mile to running 3.1 no problem.

    Kristina

    Kristina does the Internets

  • Brittany Lauren
    October 18, 2012 at 7:49 pm

    Oh wow, you look like your having sooooo much fun girl! My dream come true to be splashed by color :) I’m sure over time it will get easier for you but its still challenging. Just think of how amazing you’ll feel :) I use to run a lot before I got water on the knee and knee cartilage damage. Have fun!

  • Christina
    October 18, 2012 at 8:31 pm

    Way to go! As a comitted couch potato, who is sort of curious in the C25K, can I ask what your typical running outfit is? Did you buy special shoes? Can I just head out in some old yoga pants and some Chucks or will I suffer from it? (I’m expecting quite a lot of suffering actually but I’m getting more into the idea of working to lose some weight after baby #2!) Maybe you could share an athletic version of your monthly fashion post? :)
    Thanks for the inspiration!! You are doing great!

    • Ashley
      October 18, 2012 at 9:54 pm

      I wouldn’t recommend running in chucks. Just my two cents. If you really want to get into running a good pair of shoes is a must. But do your body a favor and at least wear a decent pair of shoes. I can tell in my legs when my shoes are getting old, or if I try to run in something other than my stability shoe.

      • Erica W
        October 19, 2012 at 7:01 am

        I agree Ashley. Wear whatever you want for tops & bottoms but get some good shoes. You can really hurt yourself if you’re wearing the wrong shoes!

  • Katie
    October 18, 2012 at 9:00 pm

    I’ve been a runner my whole life and just ran my first half marathon. The first three miles are always the hardest. But it does get easier!!! Once you can run 3 miles straight, it gets so much easier.

  • Annie
    October 18, 2012 at 9:10 pm

    The Color Run looks like SO much fun. What a great race! And for the longest time, I thought running was crazy and couldn’t do it at all. Then I took a class at my gym and started getting into it, and now it’s a regular part of my week. You can totally get to running 3 miles without stopping. It takes a little time to work up to it, but once you do you’ll be so proud at how far you can go.

  • Sarah
    October 18, 2012 at 9:40 pm

    I’ve been running for a little over a decade and started from a point of utter misery, zillions of walk breaks, side aches, red cheeks, etc. It gets WAY easier and way more fun. My “regular” run now is 6 miles without any breaks and I don’t think much of it, and I’ve raced halfs and longer. But no matter where you end up with running, you’re doing such a good thing for yourself already! Looks like you had a great time. :)

  • Ashley
    October 18, 2012 at 9:52 pm

    It definitely gets easier. I thought I more or less hated running all the way through the couch to 5k. I even said I was pretty sure I was going to give up on running as soon as I finished my first 5k because I didn’t love it. 5.5 months after starting the C25K I ran a half marathon. It gets easier and it gets addicting. Keep at it!

  • Alice
    October 18, 2012 at 10:01 pm

    Yes, it gets easier with consistent training and nothing feels more awesome than that extra push run that you do at the finish line. I haven’t done a color run myself, but it seems like a good one to walk and meander through just for the experience and sights. Now you have your baseline for when you can run.
    I trained for and (mostly) ran a half marathon in 2009 going from nothing. I did lots of 5k’s and a 10k along the way. I lost my running mojo (it leaves quite quickly if you don’t maintain it) and I miss it.

  • Leah
    October 18, 2012 at 10:59 pm

    I’m with you!!! I’ve done couch to 5K and so want to be that girl that loves running. I know people that can just jog/run for miles with no breaks and I’m dying at the minute and a half of the couch to 5k! I didn’t get passed week three!!! I just have no stamina, but can lift weights or do zumba til the cows come home- but ask me to jog and I just die!!! what gives?!

    good luck!!!! keep inspiring me to make it happen!!! i”m signing up for the color run in SF in 2012 and I want to jog it all- we’ll see!!!!

    • Leah
      October 18, 2012 at 11:00 pm

      I mean SF in 2013 (not 2012)!!

  • Greenieweenie
    October 18, 2012 at 11:28 pm

    I’m a lifelong runner, but I remember teaching myself how to run. You HAVe to control your breathing…once you figure that out, youcan just go forever. Moving your arms and legs isn’t the hard part…you do that all day long. It’s the breathing: when you breathe in, make sure your belly goes out. Breathe deep. If you feel like you’re getting cramps, just focus on inhaling deeply and filling your belly (yes, I know air goes into your lungs but you’ll get what I mean…it’s breathing using your whole core). The more oxygen you take in, the less your cramps will hurt. Regulated breathing makes all the difference…even now, having run for years, if I get on a treadmill and am not focused enough, I have to tune back in to my breathing to make sure cramps don’t set in.

  • Linley
    October 18, 2012 at 11:41 pm

    I just ran a Color Run too! First of all, yes you are really a runner. You don’t have to be fast, or run far or have much of a history of running to be a runner. You only have to run.

    And of course it gets easier! I couldn’t run a mile straight when I started running a year and a half ago. Since then I’ve run a full and a half marathon among other races. Stick with it and eventually you will find it can be an outright joyfilled activity. You just have to keep at it until you hit that point. :) Rock on!

  • Bryony
    October 19, 2012 at 3:54 am

    It definitely gets easier. At first I could barely go 6 minutes at a time on the treadmill, but then I got to the point where I ran about 5 miles most days of the week. Of course, then I got pregnant and even after having my son my hips were not happy about the idea of running. But now, I’m training for a fun cross-country-style 9-miler in December and it’s fine. And I agree with Linley: you don’t have to run fast or far to be a runner.

  • Nic Squirrell
    October 19, 2012 at 6:01 am

    Good for you!
    I did the same program starting in March and found it hard going (as a dedicated couch potato and sport hater) but now 5K is easy peasy and I barely break into a sweat.
    I feel so much fitter and healthier and energetic, so keep it up, it is so worth it.

  • The Lazy Fair
    October 19, 2012 at 7:00 am

    A few years ago, I decided I was sick of being out of shape so I started running around the block. Then I came home and did a push up and like 30 seconds of sit ups. Every week, I added another block of running, another push up, another few sit ups. Within a year, I was running 4 miles.

    Of course, then I got pregnant and three years later, I’m just as out of shape as I was before. But I did the Color Run this past summer and it was definitely a fun way to get back into it all.

  • Christine
    October 19, 2012 at 8:03 am

    As long as you build up your time and mileage slowly, it gets easier and you’ll stay injury free. Before you know it, you’ll be running 30 minutes straight without issues. The couch to 5K is a good program. Keep it up and good luck!

  • Corrin
    October 19, 2012 at 8:13 am

    That looks like so much fun!

    I’ve just decided that some people aren’t runners. And that means me. I’ve always been athletic, I hike around 25 miles a week, but I can’t run more than 50 feet to save my life.

  • Robin Grey
    October 19, 2012 at 8:27 am

    Sorry, not a runner, yoga’s my jam. I had to say though, what great pictures of you and your sister. You look so happy. I was reminded of that article you linked to about Moms getting into the photos, and thought, what a great photo for your kids to look back on. Cudos for getting off the couch!

  • Sarah
    October 19, 2012 at 8:58 am

    Yes! It gets easier. I did Couch to 5K two years ago – and went from being winded after 60 seconds of running to running three 5Ks and eventually a 10K. During that last race I realized I hated running and haven’t run since! But at least I can say I tried :)

  • Sarah
    October 19, 2012 at 9:51 am

    Yes! It gets loads easier! I’ve been running for more than 10 years now, and though I’ve never become a long distance runner and never plan to, I started with the Couch to 5K and it really has only gotten easier. It’s rarely actually EASY – for me, anyway – but sometimes it truly is a joy. Stick with it! You can do it! And if your commitment wanes, take a look at your local running shops or the Chicago Area Runners Association – I have a cousin who works for them, and training with a team can really make the difference!

  • Rebecca D.
    October 19, 2012 at 9:53 am

    Good on you for trying something new! It gets much easier, and much more fun, but there are no shortcuts. Running tells you just how fit you are, no lies, no cushions to soften the blow. But as you improve, you know that you earned every extra step. I *struggled* through my first 5k when I was 24 and now, at the age of 41, regularly run 6, 8, 10 miles, the occasional half-marathon and an annual Ragnar relay with friends. You can do it!

  • Joy | Frock Files
    October 19, 2012 at 10:27 am

    Congratulations! I’m not built for running, but I so admire people who do it. I agree with the other reader who said that any exercise is better than none. My exercise is dance and always has been. Occasionally I try to branch out, but inevitably I end up getting hurt. I think the most important thing at the beginning is to take things slowly so you don’t get burnt out or injured. I’m super impressed that you already did your first 5k and I’m excited to hear about your upcoming races, too.

  • Julia at Home on 129 Acres
    October 19, 2012 at 11:12 am

    It does get easier, Nicole. But I’m a big believer that you have to find what works for you. Running isn’t for everyone. After running a 30K and a marathon, I learned that distance running isn’t for me. I just don’t have fun when I’m giving that much time to training. Now I’m a 10K or less girl, and I’m comfortable with that. Not every run is easy, but I enjoy them enough that I stick with it.

  • Crystal
    October 19, 2012 at 11:34 am

    Oh wow, so fun and cool! Hats off to you! I dream of doing this someday.

  • amyks
    October 19, 2012 at 12:28 pm

    GOOD FOR YOU!!! Running is hard work, so be very proud of your accomplishment!

  • courtney
    October 19, 2012 at 12:29 pm

    ugh, i hate running-it BETTER get easier! this race looks so cool though, such a good and fun goal!

    xo,
    Courtney

  • Julia
    October 19, 2012 at 12:38 pm

    18 months ago, I wasn’t a runner. I ran in Central Park sometimes–usually 2 miles, sometimes 3.5, if I was feeling ambitious. Then I started running with a friend–we started with a 5k race, worked our way up to a 15k and then in March ran a half marathon (21.1k).

    This year I’ve run 8 races so far and I plan on doing 2 more by December. Last weekend I ran my second half marathon–my first international race, in Toront!–and I’m currently signed up to run the 2012 NYC Marathon next fall.

    If you had told me 18 months ago that in two and a half years I’d be running a marathon, I would have laughed in your face. Now it’s one of the things in the near future that I’m most excited about.

    Running is hard. But it gets easier. Exponentially so. (When training for our first half, we realized that each subsequent long run, though a mile longer than the one before, FELT easier.) And the satisfaction you get from it–not to mention the runner’s high–is well worth the pain and sacrifice.

    Keep it up. One day, probably soon, you’ll look back to now and think about how silly you were for worrying about a 5k :)

  • Ashlea Walter
    October 19, 2012 at 12:59 pm

    congratulations! It DOES get easier,just keep on, keepin’ on, girl!

  • kim
    October 19, 2012 at 1:01 pm

    It totally gets easier! I started the Couch to 5K program in July having never been a runner before and I felt the same exact way. When the runs jump up to 10 minutes at a time and then 20 I thought there was absolutely no way I could do it, but I did! I ran my first 5K in September and made it through the whole thing. Not to mention I have Psoriatic Arthritis and this time last year I was barely walking, so it’s pretty amazing to me. Hang in there, it does get easier and you’ll be so proud of what you can accomplish if you stick with it! Keep going!

  • Alison
    October 19, 2012 at 1:32 pm

    Can’t wait to do the one n Boston 2013 :)

  • Meghan
    October 19, 2012 at 2:59 pm

    It definitely gets easier. Training for my first marathon now. Just take it slow, celebrate each milestone, and make sure you have the right shoes. A specialty running store should be able to fit you for the correct shoes. Other than that, it helps to run with other girls or a group of women. I much prefer running with the girls than my husband or any other male. Women running friends are so encouraging of each other. So, be proud of yourself!

  • Kristyn @ Organic Grey
    October 19, 2012 at 4:39 pm

    i am a TERRIBLE runner–aka, i can’t run. i speed walk and jog, but i can’t seem to go longer than 3 minutes too haha! kudos to you for going out there and steppin it up, girl! so impressed. i’m sure it will get easier the more you do it :)

    xo,
    kristyn

  • Holly
    October 20, 2012 at 2:20 pm

    Way to go! I had gotten into running right before I got pregnant with my daughter (about 2 years ago). I was really gaining momentum but then stopped and just did low impact cardio. Good music is what kept me going.

  • Melissa
    October 20, 2012 at 5:54 pm

    CONGRATULATIONS!!
    I’m a new runner too. I actually started the C25k program a year or two ago, but never finished it. Now I’m on week 4 of an 8 week Sparkpeople Running program. This week it’s 2 minutes of walking, 3 minutes of running, 5 times. I can’t wait until it gets easier, too.
    Inspirational, keep up the good work!
    -Melissa

  • Lisa @ Wicked and Weird
    October 20, 2012 at 8:24 pm

    I did the couch to 10K programme and went from “ohmygod I can’t run to the end of the street” to “ohmygod I just ran 12K”. Honest. I hardly believe it myself – it does get easier – I would say the first 6 weeks are the hardest by far!

  • Emma
    October 20, 2012 at 8:45 pm

    I started the couch to 5k about a year ago. Before that I thought running was just a ridiculuors sport. I found it SO hard at first. I rememeber when you had to jump from running 8 or 5 minutes to running 20 minutes(or something like that) I thought there was NO way I could do that. But I kept going and now I do 5km a few times a week with no problem. I have 2 kids the same ages as yours and running is AMAZING for my life. I feel incredible because of it. The kids get a really happy, strong mum. My husband and I take it in turns to run in the mornings for half hour each. We literally tag team as one of us comes home from our run, the other is high fiving at the door and heading out for their own run. Good music is KEY for me. Keep going, you’re completely inspiring and the post you wrote about you becoming the family bread winner made me excitedly tell my husband and give you a mental fist bump. Solid.

  • emily
    October 20, 2012 at 9:18 pm

    Hey, Nicole,

    Congrats on getting started. I’m a long time runner but quit for a few years when I was pregnant and my son was new but have been back at it for several years. It DOES get easier. In fact, I am convinced that most people are cut out for longer distances than they realize. I always feel awful the first mile or so. The keys are good hydration, great stretching, and killer playlists. One day soon you’ll be running, thinking how torturous it all is, then you’ll let your mind wander and by the time it wanders back, you’ll realize, hey, this feels good. I’m doing this. My body is capable and my mind is capable. For me, the best part of running has always been how I feel after. There is really no comparable pride in one’s self and one’s own literal physical accomplishment. That, I think, is a huge part of the addiction for me. Regardless, you’ll find your own joy in it. Keep it up. My best runs have come when just lacing up my shoes is a struggle and I think, oh I can’t do this today. Then, oddly, I push on. And I’m always glad I did.

  • pandorameka
    October 20, 2012 at 11:18 pm

    GOOD FOR YOU ~~~

  • fenny setiawan
    October 21, 2012 at 9:03 pm

    Nicole, you looked so cute with the bright gold short.
    I always want to try 5kn runs and my friend pursued me many times, I should try one day, after seeing this post… so much fun on it :)

  • Kimberly
    October 21, 2012 at 10:07 pm

    It DOES get easier! For me the key was learning that “running” does not mean sprinting…it means moving at a pace you can sustain. Mine was a shuffle that was a smidge faster (if that much) than walking, but I remember how proud I was when I did it for 30 minutes straight during my first 5k after the couch-to-5k program I did. And most amazing of all I could actually say that I enjoyed running! Have fun with it!

  • SAWK
    October 21, 2012 at 10:18 pm

    Hey! I’m so proud of you for running!

    It absolutely gets easier, and even addictive. Stick with it! The first time you run longer without stopping than you ever have before will be one of the most unadulterated proud-of-yourself feelings and that will motivate you.

    Be well!
    See you at Camp?
    – SAWK

  • Dorien
    October 22, 2012 at 4:07 am

    So awesome that you did this! I would love to be able to run some more too. I just never dare to go walk in the street haha.

  • Lisa
    October 22, 2012 at 12:08 pm

    This summer I finally managed to go from running to the end of my street and dying (only a dozen houses or so) to running about a mile and a half to two miles depending on the day. My roommate gave me the two secrets that ended up working. 1.) Run far slower than you think you should. You will feel goofy and be going no faster than you can walk, but this is the trick to going the distance before adding speed. And 2.) trick your brain into thinking you are just walking. Tell yourself you are just walking fast and make sure you are breathing evenly and deeply through your mouth and out your nose. This is just what worked for me!

  • Bre
    October 22, 2012 at 1:28 pm

    Congratulations! Way to go! Everyone’s advice has been really spot-on for what worked for me… the only thing I’ll add is that running is at least half mental, so figuring out how to relax your mind or distract yourself to settle into the run is one of the important things you figure out in the beginning. I bet like a lot of others said that once you hit 5k you’ll keep on going – running is definitely addictive. You’re doing great!

  • molly
    October 22, 2012 at 6:21 pm

    It gets easier! I used to run A LOT (half marathon distances), and now I don’t run very often at all. However, since I was able to work up to becoming a “runner” in the past, I seem now to be able to run a 5k pretty easily (though slower). It’s mostly a confidence thing, in my experience.

  • Ashley Stenberg
    October 24, 2012 at 10:55 am

    Personally, I think your sister is a genius; Ke$ha is the perfect running music. :) I really like how some people have given the advice to run slower than you think you need to, that’s definitely me (as you’ve seen). I’ve slacked off a bit since the run but my goal is still to be able to outlast you, or at least keep up with you. It’s going to take a while but I’ll get there! Let’s plan the next 5K, shall we?

  • lisa
    October 25, 2012 at 7:32 pm

    i hated running, but wanted a challenge so i made myself do it. now i’m about to run my 3rd (slow) half marathon. one day after sticking with it for awhile it just starts to click. you have a few runs where you get in a groove and forget about everything else and you realize that is the feeling that makes people stick with it. every run is not like that. some are horrible. some weeks i will run 8 miles and feel pretty fine and then feel like 1 mile is hard two days later. but the ‘in the groove’ feeling is what keeps you going back. and looking forward to time by yourself (or a friend), listening to music or enjoying the outdoors can all start to trump the dread of exercising. stick with it. the proud feeling is worth it.

  • Jaime
    October 27, 2012 at 3:28 am

    I loved the color run, it was my first run too! I am still training and it gets better, sort of! I have decided I am enjoying being sore and pushing my self!
    As a former running hater, I think I am coming around a bend!
    Best of luck!

  • Lindel
    November 1, 2012 at 9:35 pm

    It gets easier. But train according to your personality. Some runners need races and times and heart rates. Some need music. Some need silence. Some need to do it with a friend. As soon as it becomes a chore, or you don’t like doing it, you will stop. So do what it takes to keep enjoying it.

    For me, a non-sporty-but-it-seems-running-is-something-I-kinda-like-kind-of-person, I warm up, then jog, then run, then walk when I feel like it (i.e. when I don’t like the running bit), then jog/run again when I want. I keep this up for 30-45 mins. I do this about 3 times a week and after a while the running gets longer and the walking shorter. If you run until it hurts or you hate the feeling, you will grow to hate running.

    Sometimes I don’t feel like running so I walk up stairs or take hills on my route. Sometimes I only have 15 mins in me. But it all helps. The key is I don’t beat myself up about any of it.

    Music: I used to listen to upbeat songs and run one, walk one etc. As my running stretches got longer I switched to classical and jazz with long long tracks (Jazz Bach is tops for this. Jacques Loussier trio and Kevin Hunt are great). Now I like silence.

  • Christina
    November 12, 2012 at 2:13 pm

    I started the C25K program about a year and a half ago, and about a month ago ran my first half marathon. Due to an injury I did not run for 4 weeks after the race and just started back at square one, running a mile at a time this weekend. Yes, the running gets easier, but what I’ve realized after a month on my tooshie, is that so much of it is mental strength. Today I ran a mile and a half and wanted to quit so bad! Just keep running a little bit further. If you can push your mind, your physical strength will catch up quickly. Congrats on your color run- they sound so fun, I’d love to do one.

  • Eva
    November 16, 2012 at 12:20 pm

    I started the couch to 5k a couple months ago. It. Was SO hard for me at first, but today I ran 26 minutes and legitimately enjoyed every minute. And a big part of that enjoyment was remembering how hard it was just a couple months ago! I don’t have any goal other than being a little healthier, and if i never run a marathon, that’s okay with me. I’ve followed the program pretty closely, but I also am careful to listen to my body. If I feel like moving is torture that day, I still give it a go, but I don’t beat myself up if It’s not my best ever run. If the workout is almost over and I’m feeling really great, maybe i challenge muself to go extra hard for the last minute of the run. I’ve been able to stick with it (well, so far, but 2 months is way longer than ive been able to stick to an exercise program before) and enjoy it by finding what it takes to make it fun for ME! I like listening to music. And I like getting to bribe myself to stay motivated with cute running clothes. You’ll hopefully figure out what makes it fun for you! And if nothing makes it fun, then maybe it’s not for you. And that’s perfectly okay too.

  • Emily
    November 21, 2012 at 12:15 am

    I started “running” on July 3- the day before my 34th birthday. My goal was to run a 5k and a 10k. My first mile was about 13 minutes of starting and stopping goodness. But, I kept on and finally have the “bug”- did a 5k in Chicago in September and ran the FLWright Run (10k!!!!) recently. You must do that next year. It’s so, so awesome to run in your home town. Keep it up!!! I’m thinking of joining the OP Runners club- because having running buddies seems like a fun thing- especially now that I’ve got all of this momentum and it’s dark and cold out.

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