Being more relaxed!

[AndG]

This morning went out at 6.30 ran for 30 mins 3.7k distance. Not great and I was doing better before, but decided despite my earlier posts about struggling without any structure I am going to do this for a few weeks until it feels easier before trying longer runs/ distances.

I varied my route v slightly today which made run feel quicker and now nights are going to be lighter (yay!) I am going to do some non road running for at least 1 if my runs.

Bit late if me to “get it” but this is supposed to be enjoyable! The C25K app gave me something to aim for and I felt a great sense of achievement completing it. I want to aim for something else, but main aim is to enjoy running. I also want to run without pressurising myself or comparing myself to others.

[Hidden]

Sounds like a plan. Less pressure, more enjoyment 👍

[MsFickle Graduate10]

Sounds good, I like the structure of C25 that's why I repeat week 9 , even after finishing C25K I didn't manage a full 5K, looking forward to the light nights and early mornings.

[DebJogsOn]

Yes - just enjoy it. Set your own goals and don't worry what everyone else is doing 😊

[Catbee]

Amen to that!! 🤗

[AnnieW55]

Excellent idea.

I think you have realised the drawback of this amazing programme for many. It is so easy (and good) to get caught up in the progression and amazingly swift results that the enjoyment often takes a back seat and after graduation "what now" kicks in. "What now" as you now know is enjoy your achievement, consolidate to get the habit, have fun mixing it all up - and then with a good base run whatever you want.

Best wishes for a catching a running bug (and no other bugs) that stays with you for a very long time.

[AndG Graduate10 in reply to AnnieW55]

Absolutely. Thanks Annie. Just going to enjoy running regularly and see what happens for a bit. I would like to run 10K in the future still though but will know I think when I am ready.

[ju-ju- Graduate10]

Brilliant, carry on as you are, your attitude is what will drive you to continue. Well done!

[Katie204 Graduate10]

Honestly, don't worry about speed - just try to enjoy the actual sensation of running, and enjoy being out in the landscape. (I run at about the same speed as you do - I've been doing this for 2 years now, and I haven't managed to get myself to run any faster.)

[AndG Graduate10 in reply to Katie204]

Thanks Katie. That’s what I am going to try and do from now on!

[Wizziewood Graduate10]

You're doing brilliantly, it's early days in your running career post C25k.

My experience is still limited compared to some on this forum but I definitely think changing my route regularly helps me stay motivated and I don't force myself to run a route that I don't like or have got fed up with.

Also, I don't worry about stats, I just wear an ordinary watch so I know the time of day!

And remember what is said on this forum over and over 'slow and steady', speed and distance don't matter until you're in training for your first marathon!

Keep up the good work, happy running!