I started running to lose weight 8 yrs ago. My friend helped me to start running, the only problem was he ran me 4 miles flat out non-stop, I almost died! Then I went to a running club and a similar thing happened. I'm pleased to say that the club I started with have taken on board the c25k system which we know works- my point being this is the only way to truly take up running as a novice and I wished I had the opportunity to learn this way in the beginning! It gives me so much joy to be able to give something back, also it keeps me motivated to do my weekly runs too.