I could keep running backwards and forwards on the small flat area that exists (boring) or just get on with the hills....it's really difficult, any advice?
Hi all, Just joined this forum today - starti... - Couch to 5K
Hi all, Just joined this forum today - starting week 2 next time out. My question is, it is really hilly where I live, what do you guys do?
9 Replies
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helclGraduate
I think if it was me, I'd take the hills but take it much slower and accept I might be repeating weeks more than most. I'd get bored out of my mind running backwards and forwards!
IannodaTruffeMentor
If you are wanting to run straight from home then I would say tackle the hills. If you can do each weeks runs on the hills, you will be stronger and better equipped for future hill running. I remember altering my route in W6 because my runs were ending with 600m uphill. I now incorporate that hill into my regular 5k route and all those runs finish at the top of Long Slog Hill. Some people do travel to their running routes.
Good luck and welcome.
PS I don't recommend running backwards.
MarkyDGraduate
Hi CG, I am the opposite and it is very flat here. In your position, I'd extend the warm-up walk to 10 minutes (just listen to it twice) walking uphill. Then start the runs back down the hill, turn around when you get home, and run back up the hill. Turn around when the runs finish and cool down walking back to your house. You'll need to be very disciplined to not run too fast down hill, keep it steady and watch those knees. You're going to get really fit!
runningnearbeirutGraduate
Yes, go for the hills. Speed isn't important. Take small steps on the way up and you'll find that you do keep moving forwards and upwards even if it feels like you're stationary at times.
RupertlebearGraduate
Another vote here from me to tackle the hills, but slowly! My first 2 kilometres are up hill. When I started out on couch 25k I also extended my warm up section to walk the majority of the hilly bit, then as the weeks went by I've reduced the walking bit and now I can steam up the hills!! I've got thighs like steel! lol
The thing that keeps me going up the hills is the wonderful thought that in a few kilomtres I'm going to be coming back down them! 
Good luck. The main thing is to enjoy it and if hills aren't your thing or you are finding them just too knackering, then I'd say its best to get in your car and drive somewhere flatter where you can just get out and run and get excited about your achievement, rather than feeling disappointed, achey and not looking forward to the next "run"
ChrisChappelGraduate
Absolutely agree. Don't be scared of the hills. Respect them, but you will be amazed how quickly you will build stamina by going up and over. My 1st 3k is all uphill, some biggish, some just gradual incline, but i am now able to run through at constant pace. Had a couple of scares along the way and not always made it. Just pace yourself. You will aslo grow in confidence and start looking for other hills that you can conqueor.
Chris
croxGraduate
Might not seem like it, but hills are our friends.
AncientMumGraduate
Just take 'em slowly if you can't avoid 'em! Well done for starting the programme and good luck!
Thanks for all the positive advise, very inspiring xx
