I was ecstatic when I graduated on Friday and actually ran 5.39k in 35 mins. However since my legs are aching and feeling like dead weights. I have been feeling really emotional and tired.. I am now overdue for next run but worried that if I leave it tonight that I may loose my fitness. If I run Tuesday and Friday then I will have only run twice this week. I don't want to set myself up to fail
Graduated but failing already: I was ecstatic... - Couch to 5K
Graduated but failing already
![Carlin profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/2de9112a13959f3b641d5f75827af455_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
![Carlin profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/2de9112a13959f3b641d5f75827af455_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
![sparky66 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/7167d63a2fc2f4388add647a6a449817_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
You won't lose your fitness atall after a couple of days rest.. but don't leave it too long.. don't want to lose your mojo
![JaySeeSkinny profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/a5a68187361a007bae3e10e22083d605_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
You won't lose fitness that quickly. Loads of people drop out for a week if they're ill. Sometimes you come back stronger. Why not try a really slow 30 mins without any pressure regarding distance? Or wait a few more days. Running is supposed to be fun and you're not going to keep it up if you're not enjoying yourself. Just take the pressure off.
![poppypug profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/6a41166ed781e4b2294d1bf1cd1d8120_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Don't worry Carlin, take a few days off , sounds like youre exhausted . You wont lose your fitness.
Its really important to listen to your body, get some good eats inside you and some early nights. You might be going down with a bug or something .
Hope you feel better soon, and please don't worry, you will be fine xxx
![90ldfinch profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/3a242e28bc93ea70041e839bf664f407_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
You'll never fail, if you listen to your body- which you have done.
Relax, rest, and then run when you really feel like it.
Wise words in the above posts- a few days won't make any difference at all.
![runswithdogs profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/520a4a8de5e3bfd0fb2050c84f591703_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
How about scheduling yourself for a shorter run, 20 minutes or so? Or a run-walk? That way you can take it a little easier but still get out there.
![secan profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/6534eb2e4f683ac3367c6f6ab30ef3df_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
You don't lose fitness by missing just one run, don't worry.
Having said that, after the "legal high" ( ;P ) of completing the programme, it might happen that you lose motivation because you lack the structure. So, although it is fine to miss a run, try to stick to your 3 runs per week as "religiously" as possible for a few weeks, just to reinforce the habit without the incentive of a programme to follow.
After that period, even if you miss a few consecutive runs you should be able to easily pick up from where you left without risking to lose the habit and stop running.
![Carlin profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/2de9112a13959f3b641d5f75827af455_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I think I need to listen to my body as have been asleep all evening. Thanks everyone, I won't stress and will try and get out there tomorrow for at least 20 minutes.
![WendyRunner123 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/11b0a35682a8269abe16021ebeb81c13_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I did my Graduation run on Saturday and have felt exactly the same! I now have a stinking cold. I like the advice of shorter runs whilst I'm feeling rough.