W4R1 - i actually made it!

[Canireallyrun]

Had been a bit worried about Week 4 because at no time during Week 3 did I find the second 3 minute run even remotely comfortable. But I'm just back from W4R1 and I did it! Amazingly the 3 minute runs were fine. I did struggle a bit during the second 5 minute run: I could have cried when Laura told me I was only half way through. But somehow I kept going. What's harder was that this last run was uphill all the way. I've learned though that the second run of the week is often harder than the first so I'm still bracing myself for Wednesday or Thursday. But at least I know I can do it! Thanks to other bloggers for their encouragement too

[SuzukiLisa Graduate]

Well done! I did w4r1 today too. x

[danzargo Graduate]

Well done to you!

I have just started Week 5 this morning and can honestly say that Week 4 is markedly hard - mentally. I had the same feeling as you - after running for a thousand minutes (in my head) Laura said "you're half way!!" - I couldn't believe it. Surely I had run more than 2.5 mins? Alas, the genius of this training schedule is such that by the time you progress week by week, you will find that YOU CAN DO IT. it'll be tough(ish) but I've found the trick is to not go fast. Slowwwwwwwwww and steady is the key.

You will find weds hard but Friday will be a piece of cake - because mentally your brain wil say to itself "Hey babe, I already did this distance. I'm ready!" Go for it (as Laura says!)

[Crismatlotta Graduate]

I find that the minute I lose focus it all becomes too hard! Also, I try to not think ahead to the next runs because then I panic. When I focus on the run, and the feel of the ground beneath my feet I actually enjoy it and begin to have fun.

Well done you for doing it! The program is great and you will see the improvement week by week.

[mother_of_3_boys Graduate]

Well done you, you can do it. And uphill, that's a challenge I haven't had to face yet

[Maturelady Graduate]

Well done Canireallyrun I did wk4 run2 today so I know how you felt. I too was scared to do the first run but I was amazed when I managed it easier than I had anticipated. I cut my speed down as I realised I had being going too fast. I was not gasping for breath and I was really relaxed. Keep it up and enjoy.

[Canireallyrun Graduate]

Thanks everyone for sharing and encouraging! Will report on run 2 in due course.

[mexgirl Graduate]

Great job. I did W4R2 today and it does get easier. You can do it.