Many physical activity programs evaluate effectiveness using physiological and survey measures, but few assessments include participants' perceptions. This study examined changes in self-perceptions of individuals participating in a 12-week beginning running program--the No Limits program. Over the course of the program, three methods of data collection took place. First, observations were completed with the researcher as both a non-participant and participant observer. Second, online individual interviews were conducted with 18 adults (15 females, 3 males), ranging from 29 to 70 years of age (M = 50.2 years, SD = 12.2 years). Finally, focus group interviews were also conducted with an additional eight female participants aged 18-32 years of age (M = 24 years, SD = 7.6 years). In individual and focus group semi-structured interviews, participants were asked to describe their experiences in the No Limits program. Two major categories emerged from the data--social support and goal-striving. Social support included experiencing a sense of belonging and encouragement from peers and coaches. Goal-striving included setting and achieving goals, which were related to participant self-confidence. The results indicated that social support, goal setting, and self-confidence are important factors in helping beginners adhere to an exercise program. The No Limits program had a positive impact on participants' self-confidence, which has implications for physical activity and exercise adherence. Overall, these findings suggest incorporating social support, formal goal setting sessions, and efforts to increase the running-related self-efficacy to foster positive self-perceptions, exercise adherence, and long-term physical activity participation.