I'm 2 weeks away from my first 10k race and I'm generally running between 3-6k 2/3 times a week. Should I be running longer distances? Should I be running more? Should I just do what's best for me and how I feel?
Today I ran 3k but upped my pace and I definitely felt it. I ran faster than I normally do and tired easily. A part of me wants to continue increasing my speed and gradually increasing the distance each run. Should this be ok?
Am worries I won't run 10k comfortable or in a good time.
Personally I like to have done the distance before the race. But at least get to 9 I’d say. 8 this week, 9 next, then the race.
If you can run 6k you will be able to do 10k but you will probably need to reduce the speed and go at a comfortable pace. That said, the atmosphere on the day will carry you through, it’s surprising how much of a lift it gives. Don’t worry if you have to walk some of it lots of people will do that. Just set off steadily, don’t get carried away, you can always speed up if you have something left near the end. Most of all enjoy yourself and don’t worry about the time.Maybe when you have done your run and got the bling 🏅(it’s addictive) you might look at a more formal way of working towards speed or distance . Don’t forget the strength training too.
Hi Bethan,
I've only re-joined HU today having had a few months break, but thought I'd send you a quick reply anyway 
I think the best thing to do is totally forget about pace. You will probably feel happier with your performance and enjoy it a whole lot more if you don't keep having to stop for breath. I did a hilly run recently where I kept having to stop, and was fairly mad with myself. I would say with the time you have left, try and fit an 8 and 9k run in first, and make your race your first 10k. In between, assuming you can do 3 runs per week, maybe a short pacier one (say 2 or 3k) and a 5k, something like that. Just enjoy it though!
Oh and good luck!!
Neil
If it's 2 weeks Beth, it's all about confidence and preparation now. Personally I'd try a long run this week, try 8k. Go slow, very slow, don't go when it's hot, go when it's cool, make sure you're hydrated, have a banana something light, don't go after a large meal... Prepare for it properly, make it as comfortable as you can.
You want to finish that run feeling good/confident. That's the run you'll go back to in your mind on race day, if you can do that run...you'll smash 10k with all the support, adrenaline and the energy from running with other people.
You don't want to be doing any long runs in your last week. Just very easy short runs, just two... and then the race. Good luck, and ENJOY IT!
First 10k... so that’s the same as any startline for the first time, the aim is to complete the distance, pace is irrelevant. As above, extend each week to get closer to that distance.
A good time for your first run at any distance is the time you complete it in... take that pressure off yourself right now. Enjoy celebrating the journey to 10k on race day.
I would also recommend trying to get a longer run done without worrying about pace. If you haven’t run beyond 6k, the extra 4K is likely to be difficult on the day. You can’t go back in time to do the gradual build up I would have advocated, but at least try to do a 7-8k Run this week.
week3run1 ✅. 3 x 17 mins with 1 min walks. 
How did your parkrun or (not)parkrun go?
