Off the treadmill onto the road

[sbutchard]

well my treadmill broke tonight just after I had completed my warm up walk, so for the first time since I started C25K I went out on the road. well I found it really difficult, so much harder, so an there any tips for making the transition to the road, or do I just have to push through it?

[Clara29 Graduate]

Stick with it and push on through: it is really worth it as SO much more enjoyable than the treadmill. I ran in a light drizzle and the dark tonight and it was lovely! Make sure you keep yourself safe ( reflective gear and pavements and care when crossing roads though) and you will never want to go back to the stuffy old gym! Good luck!

[runswithdogs Graduate]

I started on the road, and it's worth noting that route planning is key. I have easy and tough routes depending on how I'm feeling. And don't beat yourself up if you have to walk a bit extra on hills and inclines - they make you stronger but they are tough! I suspect you'll adjust quickly - don't worry if you have to repeat runs. Slow and steady will get you there - because you're setting your own pace you can slow to a crawl if needs be.

[Toonlou24 Graduate]

I did the whole of c25k on treadmill and went outside about 6 weeks ago now. My first run was tough but I was going far too fast. Once I found my pace I was fine. Had a few niggles so bought some posh trainers after gait analysis and what a difference. Pain free!! And I'm a convert. I love outside now. I run for longer as it's not at all boring. good luck. Stick at it. Slow down!!!!

[runner56 Graduate]

It is all about pace outside. I think we all tend to misjudge when coming from the treadmill. You'll soon get the hang of it.

It is so much more enjoyable

[kickibro Graduate]

Are you on the plan? You could go back one week. Running outside is much harder as the surface is harder, you are moving ahead on your own steam without anything helping to propel you and the surface is variable but it's so much more revitalising with the sounds, smells, weather, views, etc. See if there are any jogging or cycling routes nearby and try a new one every day as a fun challenge.