I have started and stopped this C25K program so many times it makes me sick, but I have started again.  I had back surgery 6 years ago and it seems when I get in the 4-5th week, I get a flare up in my back and can't do anything short of holding down the couch.  In the past, I tried to run everyday, so this time, being that I'm 41 and prone to injuries, I will run every other day.  I have put on 50lbs since my back surgery (crept on <10lbs a yr), and I want to get it off, and I want to remain healthy.  Many of my friends have high cholesterol, high blood pressure and/or diabetes, and I don't want to have those issues. Being heavy is also a stuggle when trying to run.  It's not easy hauling this trunk around, but by gosh, I do my best.

One thing I do to pass the time when I run is I run in different places.  If I run near where I live, I try to take different routes.  If I have time, like on the weekends, I go to a different neighborhood, usually near the beach, so I can look at big houses and beautiful yards.  It definitely helps pass the time.  I usually will linger for a long walk after I finish my run and just enjoy the scenery. I think it helps me acclimate to the heat as well.

I have a question: for those of you running every other day, are you doing any form of exercise the days you don't run.  I feel like I should exercise everyday (cycle, gym, walk), but I don't know if this attributes to my injuries. Thoughts or ideas?

It would appear as though we have all abandoned this thread.  Well, if anyone happens to stumble upon this, I have had a wonderful running season.  I have done a 5K, a four mile race and two five mile races.  In a few weeks, I will be doing my first Half-marathon!  To think that at the beginning of the year, I was hardly able to run one block, now I'm about to do 13 MILES!  I hope everyone else is doing well in their running persuits.