Congrats on your 1st 5K, you should be very proud!   I was where you are a few years ago, as you do a 10K the 5K seems easier, as you do a 1/2 the 10K does not seem that long, as you do a marathon the 1/2 does not seem that long.   The distances get easier after you do them, enjoy take it slow, but don't stop.  Running does become part of your life!

Congrats on your run!  I have my first ever 5K this Sunday in Boston and while I am beyond excited - I am super nervous.  I think this may be the scariest thing ever for me.  I've had some serious issues with my knees in the past but I was officially cleared to run by my orthopedic,  I did the training with couch to 5k but have to confess the past few weeks with my knee have been diffcult.  I tried for a mile without stopping over the weekend and barely made it   But everyday is a new day and the knee feels better today than yesterday!   I don't want to miss the race as I think I need to step away from whats safe for me and just DO IT!  I am done with the excuses - its time.  But I am really nervous!

CONGRATS again to you!  It's inspiring!

Congratulations! I remember by first 5K race...and it is an amazing feeling of accomplishment. Good for you!

Congrats to Erika and all the other first time 5k'ers.

I ran my 1st 5K in 10+ years the day after Thanksgiving.  I have another coming up on New Year's Day.

Erika - your post was very inspirational.  I'd like to share with you that I just started running earlier in November.  The first few weeks I had to really commit / drag myself out the door to start my run and I could feel myself groan when I HAD to run 2 miles. I now have a few runs of 4,5, and 6 miles which I really enjoyed. I get excited now just thinking about pushing my distances farther and farther.  I am planning a 7 mile run now, which I hope to get in before Christmas.  My gift to myself.  LOL.. Would you consider a 7 mile run, mostly down hill as cheating:)?  I ran my 6 miler mainly up hill.

Now running 3 miles seems like a day off and I really enjoy it, much more than i thought I would.   I don't really run very fast (about a 12 minute mile).

Good luck and keep up the GREAT work.

Congrats on your first 5k!! I finished the C25K about a month ago and I'm signed up for a 5k in April.... thanks for posting this and sharing your enthusiasm, its contagious!!!

Congratulations on your accomplishment!  Great job!

Today is my first day on Couch to 5K.  I could only complete 17 minutes and not the full 20, but reading your post is great inspiration for me.  I'm a bit overweight and out of shape, but I am inspired.  On to your 10K now.

Right on, Mike! Well done. don't stop posting, you are quite the inspiration for many who are beginners, or are too scared to make the changes they need to for their good health.