Week 8 done - fear kicking in... motivational ... - Couch to 5K

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Week 8 done - fear kicking in... motivational assistance required please...

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate
14 Replies

I've just completed W8R3 and am worrying about week 9 as today's run was a real struggle - I couldn't possibly have done another two minutes. Has anyone got any tips as to how I can motivate myself to prepare for my next run, and not set off thinking I won't be able to do it?

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Susojan profile image
Susojan
Graduate
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14 Replies
runswithdogs profile image
runswithdogsGraduate

Some runs are just tougher than others, no rhyme or reason. You'll be fine. Remember the big jumps in week 5? This has nothing on that. Just set out, keep it slow and you'll be graduating in no time.

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to runswithdogs

Thank you, that's what I hope will happen!

Kmcm66 profile image
Kmcm66

Just keep slowing down and you will do it. The thought is worse than the reality

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to Kmcm66

Thank you

ju-ju- profile image
ju-ju-Graduate

I can remember the very same feeling. Chunk up the run into landmarks if you know the route, and only focus on getting to the next one and the time will eat away. You are so close now well done last push :)

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to ju-ju-

Reassuring that I'm not alone! Thank you

heavyhorse profile image
heavyhorseGraduate

This is a gremlin issue , rather than a physical issue the rest of your runs have been preparing you for this physically so your body can do it, it's a very small increase compared to the wk5 r 3 that you smashed so get those gremlins told to F off ! Also trying a different route can help too as you don't predict when you think you should be stopping! Good luck and let us know how it goes!

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to heavyhorse

Thank you for your advice. I can do it, I can do it (repeat until 30 mins running completed...!)

W8 isn't W9.....its preparing you for W9, so now you have done W8 you WILL BE ready for W9.

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to

I like it. Thank you

Beccym profile image
BeccymGraduate

At this point it is just those pesky Gremlins, you have done the work for 30 minutes. You could probably run longer, try to think of it as next step not next minute.

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to Beccym

Thank you , good point

I agree it's the gremlins saying you couldn't possibly do another two minutes. Tell the gremlins to take off and then talk nicely to your body, coaxing it to do those two minutes, because it really, really wants to actually. ;->

Susojan profile image
SusojanGraduate in reply to

I will beat the gremlins.... Thanks for your support

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