The Health & Hustle Couch to 5K (C25K) Program 2024/2 is designed to help participants gradually build their running stamina, starting from basic fitness levels and progressing to running 5 kilometers or 30 minutes non-stop. This program is tailored for all abilities and offers personalised coaching and mentoring. The course includes a focus on proper warm-up and cool-down routines, integrating fitness apps to track progress, and ensures a safe environment within group support.
Participants also benefit from using the group
communication tools, including WhatsApp and HeyLo, to stay informed about
events and scheduling. Beyond running, the program emphasizes holistic
well-being, blending physical and mental health aspects to improving personal
health and wellbeing.
Completing the Couch to 5K (C25K) program is a significant achievement, especially for beginners who looked to improve their fitness levels. The program, which typically spans 9 weeks containing 3 runs per week, takes participants from minimal physical activity to confidently running 5 kilometers or for 30 continuous minutes.
The Key Steps to Completing the C25K Program:
Following the Structured Plan: The NHS Couch to 5K program gradually builds up your endurance through interval training, alternating between walking and running. Each week, the running intervals get longer, while the walking periods decrease.
Consistency: Attending 3 sessions per week is crucial for progress. The Health & Hustle group, for example, holds its sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays, ensuring participants stay on track with their training.
Use of Fitness Apps: Many Couch to 5K programs, including those run by Health & Hustle, recommend using apps to monitor progress and stay motivated. These apps track running time, distance, and pace, providing visual feedback on improvements.
Group Support and Motivation: Completing the program in a group setting provides support, encouragement, and accountability. Health & Hustle emphasises safety and motivation by creating a community of runners through their platforms which allows members to achieve their goals even if they cannot make the sessions.
Gradual Increase in Intensity: As you progress through the program, your stamina will build. It’s important to stick to the plan and not push too hard too soon, allowing your body to adjust to the increasing demands.
Upon completing the program, participants celebrate their achievement with medals, certificates, and graduation events, recognising their hard work and commitment. Well done to all the Health & Hustle runners for completing the Couch to 5K course! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. Whether you were running your first kilometer or pushing to improve, you've shown incredible strength and determination. Keep up the amazing work and remember—this is just the beginning of your fitness journey! Celebrate your success and continue to inspire others with your hustle journey. Congratulations!