NHS Couch to 5k+ challenging: Hi guys, I have... - Bridge to 10K

Bridge to 10K

16,525 members26,586 posts

NHS Couch to 5k+ challenging

djhonza profile image
7 Replies

Hi guys, I have a question.

I completed Couch to 5K (at a very slow pace haha) over a month ago. I continue to run at a very slow pace for 30 mins but owed to the whole monotony of it all, I decided to try out the NHS Couch to 5K+ Stepping Stone (yesterday in fact) but found it too challenging, I completed half of it. I did however enjoy the pace of it all.

I am just wondering if I should to continue with it; will I build up stamina every run? Or should I continue with the slower 30 min run that I do?

Thanks guys.

Written by
djhonza profile image
djhonza
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
7 Replies
Grannyhugs profile image
GrannyhugsGraduate10

Did you enjoy steppingstones? If so persevere. You say you normally run slow, this is all relative and you may actually still be running fast. If your 30min runs are getting boring try mixing up the times, some a little longer and slower, some shorter but faster - have a look at ju jus plan to 10k or 60 minutes. Try some new routes. Happy running 🤗

Beatlesforever profile image
BeatlesforeverGraduate10

I was in a similar place a week ago. The 30 min runs were just getting a bit boring and I was starting to lose my mojo. I started JuJu's plan and I'm really enjoying the variety - each week you do one short, one medium and one longer run, so you can work on speed and stamina and keep things interesting. You can also combine it with the C25K+ podcasts. If you enjoy the stepping stones podcast, I would persevere with it. It will help you build up stamina 😃👍

dijep profile image
dijepGraduate10

I was doing the stepping stones podcasts before moving across to the 60 minute magic plan. I really enjoyed them especially the Stamina one, but I'd often stop before the very fast bit at the end 🤣 I run slowly but I found sometimes running at the faster pace was weirdly easier than the slower ones. I think as others have suggested mixing up routes, times and what you listen to all helps.

djhonza profile image
djhonza

Grannyhugs Beatlesforever dijep thank you all for your feedback! I wasn't expecting such a quick response! It feels good to know that people have had similar experiences. I totally like that pace steppingstone wise in fact my legs are not aching as they do when I run slow. I will definitely check out ju jus, I have never heard of it before. I will also change my route also.

Many thanks guys, happy running!!

Grannyhugs profile image
GrannyhugsGraduate10 in reply todjhonza

Here’s the link to ju just magic plan

healthunlocked.com/bridgeto...

SlowLoris profile image
SlowLoris

The C25K+ are all about cadence. If you end up going too fast shorten your stride. It feels odd and takes some getting used to. If you can run on the spot then you can run with a short stride.

Grey-smoke profile image
Grey-smoke

I have found that doing alternate stepping stones and one of the final week runs (9.1 or 2) works for me.

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Looking to push beyond Couch To 5K

I completed Couch To 5K in June 2018 managing 30 minutes (but not 5K). I then dropped off the pace...
SaxPlayer profile image

5k finally!!!

It’s been a month since I completed the Couch to 5k app and I’ve just run 5k for the first time! I...
jimmers profile image
Graduate10

Back to the Future (or back to Couch to 5k with a difference)

So I have been thinking about how to increase my speed with the aim of getting under 30 minutes for...
ChrisAllen1 profile image
Graduate10

Snails pace 10k

I completed couch to 5k in 2022 and have continued (more or less) fitting in 3 times a week runs...
SillyGilly9 profile image
Graduate10

5k To 10k

Hey guys, i have recently completed the couch to 5k and I’m ready to move forward! I found the app...
Bradm1994 profile image

Moderation team

See all
MissUnderstanding profile image
MissUnderstandingAdministrator
Annieapple profile image
AnnieappleAdministrator
Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.