Devon UK struggling with week 4

[Sallyjean]

Just started running and am struggling with the last  day of week 4. Repeated it twice now and still having to stop and walk 3 times during run. It's a shame as I felt so good in first few weeks. 

[dottiemay Graduate]

You're almost certainly trying to go too fast - you might not feel like it but it's the most common reason for struggling. Slow right down, as slow as makes it comfortable for you, this is not a race. Remember, your body is not used to this level of exercise and it takes a while to adjust.

Take as many weeks as you like to complete the run but also, if you feel that you're losing impetus, move on to week 5 - doesn't matter if you need to walk. Just take a few seconds to regain composure then start running again. If that's what it takes to finish the run, then do it! Every run is a success - it might not be the run you set out to do but it still counts!

[Sallyjean in reply to dottiemay]

I did the run this morning really slow and completed it.

[jt24 Graduate]

I hated week 4! 

I was definitely trying to go too fast- I thought I was going slow but turned out I had to go even slower

I repeated the whole week... but didn't have to repeat anything after, so there is hope!

I would suggest that you take a couple of days rest and try all 3 of week 4's runs again. I think week 5 feels like it takes a big leap and you might mentally be defeated so take a little extra time now and then move on strongly.

Good luck

[Sallyjean in reply to jt24]

Thank you for your advice I will try all you have said

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Slow, slower and slowest.. believe us, it is the answer

Just go with the flow, at a really steady pace. Think nice thoughts, take in everything around you....

Fast enough to get there...but slow enough to see.

We all have had or are having these blips.... they pass... don't get hung up on them.

Lots of support on here for you, so keep posting... we will get you through!

[Sallyjean in reply to Oldfloss]

Thank you as well. Everyone is very supportive and encouraging. 

[heavyhorse Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

yep slow slower and slowest is the best advice at this stage!

[Sallyjean in reply to Oldfloss]

Completed run this morning by running really slow. Even the walking was slow. Added a slightly different route too for a change.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to Sallyjean]

Well done... change is as good as a rest Well.. not if you are running..but it is good!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Think of it as, the new fast!

[Zarmina]

I repeated week 4 runs too.. and its strange but week 5 run 1 seemed easier than week 4. I am probably going much slower that’s why. Hang in there, we are all in this together!