Couch to 5k

So, I'm a little late to the bandwagon because apparently this has been around a while.  But it's new to me and new to a few people who I've talked to this week who haven't heard of it.  What is it?  It's Couch to 5k!

For a while now I've known that I need to get myself in gear, get moving, and get healthy.  Now that I'm done having babies and my littlest isn't so much of a baby anymore I had to tell myself now is the time to do something.

A friend of mine who recently completed her first 5k recommended this to me and I am so grateful.  Just by looking at the outline of the program I could tell this is something I can do.  30 minutes, three times per week.  Perfect for a busy momma!

Today was day one. Overall I was pretty impressed that I kept moving and didn't stop.  I didn't plan it, but the end of my workout put me right back on my doorstep as the music was ending.  I will have to remember next time though to plan a route off the main road by our neighborhood.  I saw about 67 people I know drive by me as I was panting and wheezing.  Back roads would probably be much better for the ego!

I felt like Phobe from Friends everytime someone I knew drove by:

A good pair of shoes was in order since I haven't bought any since the academy.  Those have way too many miles on them.  I was pretty excited to find these with the added bonus of my favorite color: teal.

I also snapped a photo of the breaking-in of my new shoes for my Project Life: 

I bought these at Kohl's

Nike Reax Rocket.  Doesn't the word 'rocket' thrown in there just sound fast?  :)

  Some good beats and a catchy tune definitely get me pumped up and ready to go.  If you Google "Couch to 5k podcast" there are several sites which offer free downloads which go along with the Couch to 5k program.  After looking around at a few I found a great set of podcasts you can download free here.    These are some great upbeat songs to keep you moving.  The voice-over telling you when you are halfway done, and how many run sessions you have left is quite helpful.  It was for me, at least!  The biggest help is that the voice-over also tells you when to run and when to walk, so you won't need a timer or stopwatch.  Just put your earphones in, turn on your mp3 player, and get going!

Something I forgot but totally needed was one of those arm bands to strap your ipod down to your arm so you don't have to hold it while you're trying to run.  I'll have to pick one up this week.  An ace bandage works in a pinch, but looks kind of funny.  Don't ask me how I know!

Is anyone else doing this program, or have you done it?  I'd love to hear your input and any tips you have to offer so be sure to leave a coment to help this girl out.  Thanks!