Sub 30 min 5k training, run 12!

[run_forrest_run]

Hi everyone! I started C25K back in August 2012 and sort of completed the program, managing to run 5k twice. Unfortunately I spent literally all of last year plagued with what I believe were severe shin splints. I had 8 weeks off over the Christmas period and then slowly got back into running. But the major turning point only happened recently, when I started doing proper calf stretches before and after running, using a foam roller too to avoid 'knots' in my muscles.

I've signed up to do a 5k Race For Life in Reading in July, and am determined to break the 30-min barrier. So I've downloaded a training plan on Runkeeper which is based around interval training, with a weekly long run. Tonight I completed run 12 and ran 2.91 miles in 29mins 29secs, which I am super proud of! So am hoping I'll be on track to reach my target after 7 weeks

Next run is 4 miles which will be the furthest I've ever run ...wish me luck!

Happy running

[kickibro Graduate]

Good luck. Set your mind and know you will achieve it xxx

[run_forrest_run in reply to kickibro]

Thanks kickibro! Xxx

[I_will Graduate]

Good luck! That sounds like an interesting training plan on runkeeper. I'm sure with that you'll blast it!

[run_forrest_run in reply to I_will]

Thank you! I'm certainly going to give it my best shot

[Rob_and_his_westie Graduate]

My daughter is a dancer and tells me off if I don't stretch gently both before and after a run. It works very well for me.

[run_forrest_run]

Thanks KittyKat ! Yes I do think stretching before a run helps, because my calf muscles are noticeably looser once I've done them. One of my fave stretches is to stand with my back against a wall with my feet out about a foot in front of me, then try to curl my toes back towards my body. I saw it in Runners World in a shin splints article and I think it's really helped! Good luck with your running