Repeating C25k......

[lexiemcd]

Hi - I completed the C25k programme last summer. I'm not a lover of going out in the dark winter mornings so resorted to running 30 minutes on the treadmill three times a week over the past five months. On Tuesday I decided to hit the pavements again and really struggled - plus my thighs were aching slightly the next day . I've decided to repeat C25k starting with W3R1 which I did this afternoon (no prolems and actually enjoyed it) . I'll continue to complete the programme again but wonder if anyone else has had a similar experience with going from treadmill to outside ??

[Irishprincess Graduate10]

Yes I have. I had to turn to the treadmill because of an old ankle injury and apart from the first three weeks I did all the programme on it. When I first went outside I did it gradually. So, although I’d graduated I ran for 20 minutes on my first outing and did just one run a week with the other two on the treadmill. Then the next week I increased the time to 25 and then 30. After this I ran twice outside until eventually I was running all three runs outside.

The secret is to slow right down and run slower than you think you need to. We use slightly different muscles outside than we do on the treadmill so our bodies have to get used to the different movement.

It sounds as if you have the right approach so just keep going and build up slowly. Good luck 🙂

[lexiemcd 60minGraduate in reply to Irishprincess]

I didn't realise there would be so much difference between the treadmill and running outside but what you're saying makes sense. Thanks so much for responding. I'm happy to continue building up again with the C25k programme outside and having the odd day on the treadmill. Thanks again.

[Irishprincess Graduate10 in reply to lexiemcd]

You’ll get there, perfect time of year for outside too 🙂

[UnfitNoMore Graduate10]

Treadmill to pavement is a very big difference... I’d go softer surfaces to start the transition.

[lexiemcd 60minGraduate in reply to UnfitNoMore]

Thanks for advice. Thought I was doing well running for 30 minutes on treadmill over the winter months 3 times a week !! R3W2 completed this morning - nice to be back outside with Laura.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate10 in reply to lexiemcd]

You did great... fitness is up, it’s just a case of adjusting to pacing again... it’ll be right in a few runs.

[lexiemcd 60minGraduate in reply to UnfitNoMore]

Thank you - your advice and support has made me feel more motivated ( ps it was actually W3R2 I did this morning )