“Mix a little foolishness with your serious plans. It is lovely to be silly at the right moment.”— Horace

[Oldfloss]

I can be silly...

***************

Well, she got the Nike Club app

And she downloaded the Half-Marathon plan now

Seems she forgot all about, no longer runs

Like she told her old man now

And with her earbuds in tightly

Goes off with CB just as he says, she should now...

And she'll have fun fun fun

'Til somebody takes her trainers away

Fun fun fun, 'til somebody takes her trainers away!

With MANY, many apologies to the Beach Boys...

*************************************************

Okay, running people. Well. Here I am again. ( AGAIN ? I hear you yell).

Yes, again. I apologise.

Hello!

Now... before any of my friends here, who know me really, really, well start grumbling at me; I know this looks very bad, BUT, ( there's always a, but),I have a plan, and despite how this looks, there is method in my madness.

I have, since my return to running health, been taking it very gently. Very, very gently. Reaching 10K a few weeks ago. I run when I am able and I do as little or as much as my body tells me too.

Anyway, a week or so ago, I found a new companion... who seems to be a real hit with some other folk on here, (hmmm), and I liked him. He lives on the NRC App...He liked me too, he told me so, and he 'lurves' running with me.

So.. we have been doing a little bit of stuff here and there... and then, someone on the forum here, ( I wish I could remember who), did say, why didn't I try the HM training plan on the NRC App ?

I said that I felt it may not be a good idea, as it could be too much, too soon?

I was reassured that you can adjust the runs and the times you run in a week, and basically tweak things. It would give me a focus, a plan to follow and more importantly, keep me from over-running. I am a little minx for not stopping when I should !

SO... I did nothing, until after perusing other folk's excellent posts about all and every aspect of running, and particularly the NRC runs and I thought... hmmm... why not!

Well, lots of reasons why not... old age, decrepitude, still a tad underweight... supposed to be a sensible 72 year old Grammy ? The only possible choice? Yes! Lets do it!

So... I read the blurb.... all about each week, I listened to the info' on the video, and I read what Week 1 involved.

I did NOT start the plan. I did though, complete Run 1 on Tuesday. A recovery run, called Starting Lines. 15 minutes. It was terrific fun!

I went up my hill, that is my idea of a relaxed recovery run.

I took 2 days rest... ( this is the tweaking, beginning), if you can call a day yesterday, with small runner in training, a rest day that is

I ran today. It was a Speed Run, called... oh my … FUNKY Fartleks...honestly!

They were so, so funky. I had not got a clue what to expect, since I have never specifically run any!

Then, add to my lack of knowledge the fact that you do not know what you are going to be doing, until CB counts you down to the next section...and I was totally in his hands! Wonderful!

Slow, and easy, steady and relaxed then giving it everything you have and going for it... all mixed up and really keeping you, quite literally, on your toes.

Well!

Talk about a run, ( or runs), I did not know whether I was coming or going, but I went!

I did it and I really enjoyed every second .

So., there we are, two runs done, which I have saved... and I think I just might, officially start the plan on Sunday and jump in at Run 3. Then I have them ticked off.

On the cool down walk home, ( I finished up in a very odd place, a way from home), I thought a lot.

I had learned a great deal from that short run.

I learned that I need to sort out the tech-bit before the run started. To check the Internet Signal. ( Strange old lady in odd leggings, stamping her foot and muttering to herself, is not a good thing)!

I learned that the warm-ups on the app runs are actually runs, not walks... ( I had to start the whole thing all over, more muttering ).

I learned that I am lot fitter than I imagine I am.

I learned that the time passes very quickly when you are concentrating so hard on listening and moving.

I learned that on this type of run, I did not have any time to look around much. That was the down side. But, there are lots of other runs where that will be possible. I need to see and hear and feel.

I am on my way. Where to, I am not completely sure, but I do know that I will be taking it gently, following instructions and tweaking as necessary.

I shall be listening to my body, very, very closely.

Is this intended to take me to a HM? I really do not know.

I do know, that life is there to be grasped with both hands, life is for embracing the joy in every day, and for sharing that joy with all those we love and who love us.

I am going to do just that.

Oldfloss x

[Yesletsgo Ambassador Graduate10]

You watch out for that sweet talking coach. You start out thinking it's just a little run and next thing you're doing things you told your husband you wouldn't be doing.And then you find out he's saying exactly the same to all your friends!!!

And yet we forgive him cos he's just so darn likeable

😂

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Yesletsgo]

He is a bit of a gigolo, but that voice... so persuasive. he makes me feel almost young... I said almost!He got me doing unheard of things today certainly x

[Frenc Graduate10 60minGraduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Don’t tell Mr OF! 🤣

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Yesletsgo]

Isn't he just...! I love the fact that there is so much still to learn about running and, myself.

[Instructor57 Graduate10]

Great post !And youl enjoy the plan , I'm certainly finding it fun 😁

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Instructor57]

In spite of myself...I'm loving it.I've always really enjoyed being a lone runner...but gosh...I'm finding this a real eye opener.x

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to Oldfloss]

It's good fun !I had always avoided speed runs and intervals but now really enjoy them 😁

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Instructor57]

You were one of the folk who influenced my decision to give it a try... I saw the way you were doing it and you showed the flexibility in the plan too ..x

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to Oldfloss]

Ah .. that's good to know ! 😁I'm having to tweak it a bit at the moment after a bad back as my last long run was a few weeks ago now so I may insert a couple of intermediate ones in , we shall see 😁

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Instructor57]

That is exactly what I appreciate, that we actually see what the runs are about... and knowing others are getting issues too, helps with the whole thing. Not that I wish anyone to have issues or pain!

I am an older runner, and having had the setbacks, I still want to be careful, but I do not want to just stop, or get into a rut.

I am looking forward to seeing how this all goes!

[Instructor57 Graduate10 in reply to Oldfloss]

Exactly!I felt I was in a rut before I started this also .

It's been good to see the progress on the plan 😁

[SueAppleRun Graduate10 60minGraduate]

I wondered where my coach B had gone….. I haven’t run this week!!! how wonderful to know when I go out for my run tomorrow that I’m on the same plan as Oldfloss one of the first runners who welcomed me to this forum and commented on my first ever post😀There are different coaches and I’ve met some of them, this is such a good plan and very flexible, I’m completing the 5 runs of each week but taking longer than a week, I love the flexibility.

I will be waiting with anticipation your posts and progress xx

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to SueAppleRun]

This is getting better and better. To run with old friends... I love it when we take each other with us on our runs. It is going to take me longer than a week, for each week too. But that is fine... and we can support each other on the way.

Yes... I think CB is a tad fickle with his affections... but, I'm prepared to make allowances xxx

[SueAppleRun Graduate10 60minGraduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Yes he’s a lovely coach but certainly not a loyal one 😂 xx

[Dexy5 Graduate10]

How wonderful Oldfloss. I did Funky Fartleks a few weeks ago and enjoyed not knowing what was coming next.

I always download the run before I leave the house so that it doesn’t need an internet signal while I am doing it.

I started the HM plan to get me prepared for 10 miles and I adapted it to 3 or 4 runs a week . Even UTS has tried a few of his runs now.

Have fun!

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Dexy5]

I never thought of that! I used to do it with the C25K+ podcasts!!!

It is so good to know that other folk have done the runs and to know how they have tailored the plan too.

And if UTS has used the app! Well...I know I am definitely on the right track .

Thank you x

[Dexy5 Graduate10 in reply to Oldfloss]

He was a bit sceptical but enjoyed The Worse Advice Ever Run.

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Dexy5]

Perfect choice😉

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate10]

Oooh...that sweet talking Coach Bennet has most certainly turned your head Floss....

But I approve of Fun Fun Fun, as I'm sure Mr OF does...

With those bright coloured leggings and you running just as fast as you can glide,

You will be fit as a fiddle for those long steady runs you so love by the sea side,

With HM in your sights, but no pressure to get there too quickly,

Don't forget slow and steady and how Abba always give you that lift now.

I hope you have Fun Fun Fun as you go out to run with the NRC App...

Doesn't scan as well as yours 🤯 but you get the idea. Take care out there, I know you will. 🏃‍♀️⭐👌xxx

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Bluebirdrunner]

I think it scans wonderfully... Thank YOU!

I am taking this gently and to be honest, possibly more as a motivational support and guidance than the intention of anything like race or similar.

Just finding the runs has been sp useful in keeping me in check. When I run, just with my music or without, I always seem to find a bit at the end of the run that I want to explore, or just another corner to turn, and I was rather fixated on rounding up the Ks.

Th timings in the runs make me stop. For me that is good. I am feeling even more relaxed , even after a longish cool down walk back home.

I have learned my lesson about overstretching... I really do not want to be back there again xxx

[Frenc Graduate10 60minGraduate]

Ah brilliant Oldfloss ! You’ve really fallen for Coach B! I love having him with me, especially on longer runs. Although I tend to ignore him if he tells me to up the pace - generally it coincides with a hill. Pretty much every time. If anyone can see you through a HM plan then CB’s your man I reckon, go for it! 😊😊😊

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Frenc]

I am enjoying the whole process. Just fulfilling a need right now.I am looking forward to the hill runs. They are my favourite... My runs going up something are often at a good pace

So far, so good. One step at a time and always slow and steady, thanks you!

[Reggiegirl]

I love NRC HM guided runs. Learning lots about running and about myself 🤔.

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Reggiegirl]

That, as I am finding out is one of the best bits. It has always been the case., with me and with many of us. Running is about so, so much more than one foot in front of the other.

[Tabbles Graduate10]

Thanks for the excellent introduction to NRC. I have been debating whether to try the NRC HM plan or to stick with the Garmin Coach.

After so many people on here saying good things I think I will give it a go.

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Tabbles]

Do! I ummed and ahhhed... but it has served my purposes to date, perfectly and there is a lot of choice... so have a trawl around the information on the guided runs especially!

[Goatrider Graduate10]

Another nrc hm plan doer here… again not sure if I’ll actually get to a HM but I plan on enjoying the very gradual journey there if I do. Progress so far , I did week 1 three times taking slightly longer than a week as 5 runs a week is a bit much for me I really enjoyed the speed runs and fartleks, did week 2 but then disaster struck I managed to injure my back shifting slightly on the couch (yet more evidence couches are bad for you) so 2 weeks on after a few days of gentle back stretches and some walking I’ve re started week 2 this morning, run 1 is 15 minutes pleased to report no niggles or pain so maybe a few more of those just to make sure then onwards and upwards!

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Goatrider]

Great to be in such good company! The runs clearly offer something for many folk.I won't be doing the 5 a week..that is pushing myself too hard at the current time.

As it's all about enjoyment for me , and clearly you too, that's just fine.

Well done you!

PS

You really have proved that Couch sitting is not good for your health x

[Sandie1961 Graduate10]

Since I got my Garmin watch I haven’t done any NRC runs, because it means faffing with watch and phone and I’ve joined a running club so go with them twice a week. However, I’ve got 15 weeks to my half and 7 weeks in France coming up, so I think I’ll have to look this up, otherwise I’m not going to get there. Thank you for the nudge xx

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Sandie1961]

Bliss....CB will love that!❤

[Katnap Graduate10]

Great stuff OF!What's the plan/ not plan today?

🐱 Katnap 🐱

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Katnap]

Well !!!!!The plan is , not have a definite plan. but to plan to follow a plan and see where that plan takes me too!It's going to be an interesting journey and when I get there, it will be a real surprise x

[Run46 Graduate10]

What a fabulous read Oldfloss, I feel your joy...and what makes you enthusiastic & happy can't possibly be too much can it?! Enjoy 😊

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Run46]

Never...taking each happy moment and storing it away xxx

[FrankyC]

Wonderful 👌 go you 👏

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to FrankyC]

Such fun. Looking forward to more exploring! x

[SaskAlliecat Graduate10]

Yay! That sounds so lovely. You and BBR’s recent post are tweaking my interest. I may need to explore this option too.

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to SaskAlliecat]

Just another adventure and one I need currently I think, to keep me sensible... They are fun and I do stick to the timings . I am really enjoying my runs, with no sense of pressure. Just pleasure:)Hope all is well with you x

[SaskAlliecat Graduate10 in reply to Oldfloss]

Same old same old. Still taking it day by day. Running has been hit and miss of late but just doing what I can. We’re down some more people at work, so it truly is survival mode but when I can get a run in, it helps.

[Mormor1 Graduate10]

Ooooooo, another one here been inspired to do that plan again by reading all the positive comments....I'm in the 3 a week group, but I'll be tweaking it to '3 in a row' so the week becomes elastic! It's too easy for me to get fixated on The Goal, so I'm going to really work hard on taking it easy!! Watch this space🤣glad to be doing it with companions. 🤗

[Oldfloss Administrator 60minGraduate in reply to Mormor1]

Just great!

When a few of us are on the same route, it becomes easier? to stay on track.

Reading others posts and experiences helps us, inspires us and let's us know we often feel similar things.

Reading your reply just now, this morning has helped me.

I have struggled sometimes, and have focussed, in a negative way, too hard on a target, with really unpleasant consequences .

That's why I am determined, having crept my way back here, not to let that happen again.

So, reading your words, I know, it's not just me!

Taking it easy, enjoying, having fun exploring new runs and new ways to run. Perfect.

I am 3 a week if possible, but not worrying if I have to stretch things out.

Thank you for this....and I shall be checking on on your posts as you move on. X