Confidence issues...

[lovingrunning]

I started really well on the couch to 5k but stopped after about week 7. I have tried to run without the plan but I am really struggling. I think I stopped because I really struggle with the constant 30 minutes running (I'm not sure if I have enough stamina). Do you think I ought to begin again using the pod casts? I can feel my confidence has been knocked and don't enjoy running because my calf's and knees are now hurting and I keep stopping after about 5 minutes! Plus I was losing weight and I feel it creeping back on again.

[Cliff1805]

My advice is to go back to the podcasts at maybe week 4 or 5. If you need to do each week several times to build up your stamina then do so. Just dont give up after you have come so far! Good luck. You can do it.

[lovingrunning Graduate in reply to Cliff1805]

Thanks Cliff! I am going back to the podcasts to build my flagging stamina! I still cannot believe I have come so far and love running, so I need to get back on track again!

[Irishprincess Graduate]

Hello. First of all well done in getting this far. You do have the stamina to do this. You ran for 25 minutes in week 7! That takes A LOT of stamina! Think back to your first week. I bet you couldn't imagine then running for 25 minutes!

You don't say how long ago you last ran but as Cliff said, re-do some of the podcasts. Maybe slow down a little. Do you stretch afterwards? There are some good stretching exercises online especially for runners. I stretch even on non running days which helps a lot.

Keep going. You can do this. "Lovingrunning" - says it all really!

[Irishprincess Graduate in reply to Irishprincess]

Oops forgot to say. Yes return to the podcasts! They give structure.

[lovingrunning Graduate]

Thanks Irishprincess! You've boosted my flagging confidence.

I began running in August and ran till week 7 and then decided to do a 'DIY' on running (maybe not the best idea really)

I sat and had a good think this morning and decided (as you've recommended) to revert back to the podcasts. I had a go at week 2 (which was quite easy) but I really feel I need to get my stamina back up again.

No, I don't stretch I just trend to do a 5-10 minute brisk walk but I think I will have a go at the stretches and see if it helps my poor calf's, thighs and knees!

Yes, I do love running and hate the days that I have to have break! Thanks, again, for your great advice.

[Irishprincess Graduate in reply to lovingrunning]

Fantastic! Keep us posted.

[lovingrunning Graduate]

Will do!