Magic plan question

So after C25k - I’ve kept running every other day for about a month. I’ve made steady slow progress and go about 6.5km in 37 minutes sometimes slower, sometimes not as far. I thought this was the consolidation phase so I don’t really pay attention to time or speed except after my run. It’s been really enjoyable but now that I want to start to try for 10 km - I see the Magic plan has me doing short 15 minute runs in between longer ones. Is there a reason to drop back to shorter runs?

[Instructor57 Graduate10]

There are 2 stand alone plans .A time plan and a distance plan .

The 15 minute runs are in the time plan not the 10k plan .

You can of course do either

if you choose to follow the plan

[Hidden]

I cant specifically comment on the magic plan sadly. My approach was to continue running as you did and as and when I felt comfortable just extended one of my runs.

When I reached 8.5k I knew that 10k was do-able when my body felt right. I waited about another 6 weeks and it just happened when it felt good.

I did try the garmin 10k plan but became increasingly frustrated getting told off by my watch so just went my own way.

I did learn though that pacing is key. If you go slower you go further more comfortably.

You appear to be going at quite a speed. Zooooom. 😁

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the advice - I’ll try to see what works for me.

[Hidden]

Those shorter runs as re there to serve both as recovery runs and to allow you to mix it up, perhaps integrate some fartleks or speed sessions, remember your couch to 5k some weeks saw longer runs, and then you'd again see shorter runs, it's the same principle 👍

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks - good point. I think I’ll do the shorter runs at usual pace and then try one longer one slower on the weekend when I can take my time more.

[nowster Graduate10 in reply to Hidden]

That's the usual strategy to take. Short runs in the week and longer run at the weekend.

The shortest run could be done faster if you fancy that, but the longer run should always be done at a slower pace.

[Cmoi Graduate10]

As already indicated, the time plan and distance plans are separate. So you don't do both sets of runs, nor do you need to run the distance in a particular time. In any case, your average pace will get slower as you increase distance. Enjoy getting to 10k!

[Hidden in reply to Cmoi]

Noted - thanks!