Fitness
Here’s everything you should probably know about the training plan.
For the first 29 years of my life, I thoughtI couldnt run.
I accepted this and stuck with my trusty elliptical routine.
And then I discovered Couch to 5K training plan.
A friend of mine convinced me to try the fitness program.
I was skeptical: I never liked running and hadnt exercised in over a year.
But, 20 months into the pandemic, my mental health wasnt at its best.
Given thestress and anxiety-reducing powers of exercise, I had nothing to lose.
Its even helped with my anxiety.
At the end of your first workout, you move through a 5-minute walkingcool down.
To get started, you simply pop in your headphones, launch the app, and begin your workout.
To start you off, a calm voice will welcome you and guide you throughyour five-minute warm-up walk.
Unlike other apps that offer guided runs, this one doesnt assign specific speeds.
This process repeats three times a week, with varying running and walking intervals.
Youll likely find that after a few rest days, youll return to running feeling even stronger than before.
Based on your answer, the app optimizes the next workout to match your level.
Sometimes this means pushing you forward a workout or two, though I continually optimized backwards as a beginner.
And thats OK the app is meant to be tailored to suityourspecific needs.
Should You Try It?
The Couch to 5Ks achievable program worked for me.
Nowadays, running has become an imperative part of my wellness routine.
Maybe I will someday, but your well-being is a marathon, not a sprint.
Studies referenced:
Nielsen, R. Aerobic high-intensity intervals improve VO2max more than moderate training.
Positive effect of yoga on cardiorespiratory fitness: A pilot study.
