In a bit of a pickle

[RunRach]

So I graduated couch to 5k about a month ago and to begin with was running around 5k 2/3 times a week but last few weeks not so much doing about 1 run a week and swimming and did a charity walk at the weekend... I just feel with no aim in mind or structured programme to follow am struggling.. with C25k it was so easy download the app click which run you are on and do it! Finding it tricky without the same structure... I never had to repeat a run or stopped mid run when I was doing the programme but just finished what was supposed to be a 5k run but my app stopped working and Spotify so I lost my stride and stopped early 😫 running has been very helpful in combating my depression low mood and I don’t want to end up back at square 1.

Last few weeks haven’t been able to make it to parkrun due to work/charity walk but will be there this weekend maybe that will help

[Irishprincess Graduate10]

It does take time to get into a decent routine so don't be too hard on yourself. You're still being active which is the main thing just not running regularly, by the sound of it.

Many people re-do the programme but run on the "walk" sections and run faster on the "run" sections. That way, you have the structure that you're missing. You could try that.

Alternatively, just keep plugging away at the 5K's. Each and every run is building a stronger running body and stamina so it's all good.

After a while you can start to mix things up. Do a shorter,faster run or hills or intervals. The world is yours..... just remember to keep the joyful side and keep it fun.

[RunRach in reply to Irishprincess]

Hi thanks for your post

That is such a good idea to redo the ap but run faster on the runs! Would also help improve my speed (hopefully!)

Thanks for your advice will give it a go

[steviej99 Graduate10]

I think we all struggle a bit after graduation and life and stuff can make it hard to keep to a regular routine. My target is to build to 10k by adding in one slightly longer run each week at slow pace - I'm at 6k at the moment and will build on that. I love parkrun and that's my weekly "anchor" - always do it if I can and the great thing is you can try for a pb or have a nice relaxed jog but either way you'll get your weekly 5k fix. I think building the longer runs will help my strength and stamina for my parkrun. I tried to follow a 5k to 10k plan a couple of times including Ju Ju's magic plan on here but found it to tough to stick to the routine. So my target is parkrun Saturday mornings, one long slow run in between and a third short run if I can fit in. Not very scientific but it's working for me atte moment - perhaps it will work for you! Good luck

[JonathanP Graduate10]

Hope you enjoy parkrun tomorrow RunRach and your mojo soon returns😀

[ktsok]

It’s hard to keep the routine up, isn’t it? When there is torrential downpour, or you are working late, or have childcare, or feel a bit under the weather... there are lots of things that can trip us out of the running habit. I graduated 9 months ago and have had flurries of really great routines, followed by weeks of no running. The good news is that the running is always there, waiting for you 🙂

[RunRach]

Thank you for all your support...

Started nearer the front at parkrun today and probably started off running too fast pushed myself to near max got a PB 👍 just goes to show the ups and downs of running I think it was the competitor in me kicking in I just told myself you are not stopping for anything (apart from if I feel I might faint! 😂)