12th January 2012

Couch to 5k launched

Sussex health chiefs are inviting the county’s couch potatoes to turn New Year fitness resolutions into reality with the help of a two month beginners running plan.

In return for running three times a week – starting with runs of just one minute each - participants will reduce their risk of chronic illness, feel more positive and self-confident, and keep their weight under control.

The Couch to 5K plan aims to help people go from doing little or no exercise to being able to run for five kilometres (around half an hour) after just nine weeks.

Podcasts help would-be runners get into their stride through a narrator who guides them through each session and music to keep them on the move.

The programme was developed by novice runner Josh Clark for his fifty-something mum, and has gone on to inspire and work for thousands of other people.

“Lots of people have good intentions about taking more exercise but it can be hard to know where to start if you’ve been out of shape for a while,” said Tom Scanlon, director of public health.

“Couch to 5K is a great way of dealing with that. It builds up your fitness and stamina slowly through a mixture of walking and running, and makes the challenge achievable from day one."

“It’s an easy, cheap way to get fit and we’re backing it all the way.”

There is a quick link to the Couch to 5K plan at www.brightonandhove.nhs.uk and it is also available on the national NHS Choices website.