Used to run half marathons in my 20s. Tried to do a 5k loop yesterday at 35 with 20 extra pounds and two kids. Made it 2 miles before my knees were begging me to stop. My 7yo on his bike was actually lapping me. THE IRONY. Anyway, I'm starting Couch to 5K like a beginner bc apparently I am one now. Anyone else dealing with this comeback struggle?
Half marathon guy here too and yeah the comeback is humbling. But once you get past the first month it comes back faster than you'd expect. Muscle memory is real.
Don't beat yourself up over one rough 5k. You built the running habit once, your body remembers how to do it. Give it 6-8 weeks of consistent effort and you'll surprise yourself.
Starting from scratch at 35 is tough but also way more achievable than you think. I did the same thing last year and honestly I'm faster now than I was at 25 just because I'm smarter about training.
The 20 extra pounds hits different when you're trying to cover distance. I had the same experience at 36 and it took me a solid 3 months before a 5k felt manageable again. Be patient with yourself.
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Getting back into running after years off is brutal but also way more rewarding than running in your 20s. You actually appreciate not being winded after a mile now.