W5R1 - bad run

[TaraT26]

Today was the first time I really struggled with a run since my first week of c25k. I kept with it and ran to the end. Worried for the rest of the week especially run 3 which is 20 minutes!

[Jany]

It sounds obvious, but try not to worry! I'm convinced a lot of this programme is a mental, rather than a physical, challenge and I think you can 'psych' yourself out of a run before you've even started by over-thinking it. I did W5 last week and really enjoyed R2! It was probably the best run I'd done at that point (I really enjoyed W6R1 as well). Yes, W5R3 is tough, but you absolutely have the physical ability to do it now- it's convincing yourself of that. Just don't think about it- come time for the run, put on your trainers, grab your MP3 player and just get on with it.

Good luck!

[Be11adonna Graduate]

I can only confirm what Jany says. I did W5R1 today as well and it actually went fine. But I had a sleepless night beforehand worrying that I wouldn't be able to cope (yes, seriously).

It wasn't easy, but I managed. And this is exactly how every run has been for me since I started the programme.

Have decided not to look ahead at any of the coming weeks because it gives me too much time to think and worry that I won't be able to do it. Just take it one run at a time. I bet you'll find that your body will have enough strength and stamina and you'll pleasantly surprise yourself.

Also important (and something I've read often on here): Everyone has a bad day from time to time. It's not a reflection on your condition generally, just an isolated bad day. Don't let it mess with your head too much. Good luck!

[Fletchasketch Graduate]

I agree with the excellent advice here - it's definitely more in the head than anything else. I had some really tough runs around the week 5/week 6 mark but things got easier for me after that - mostly because I just started to believe in myself a bit more. Do try not to worry about it because if you've come this far you can definitely do it. Trust Laura, she will see you right!