Not a good day

[Runn]

Set out for W7R1 today but it didn't go to plan. Managed the first 9 minutes but was struggling with my breathing. I had to slow down to cross over a road and couldn't get started again. Walked for a bit as the next part of my route was uphill and started to run again when it was flat but didn't manage to get far before I got a stitch in my right shoulder so started walking again. Alternated walking and running for a while as it was still having to go uphill occasionally and I couldn't shake off the stitch. Eventually the stitch went and for the last 5 minutes I managed to run again (all flat or downhill from this point). So not a great day at all. My legs feel really heavy now so will take it easy, have a rest day tomorrow and then try again. I've come this far, its no time to give up.

[Hidden]

Yes these things happen. You can't give up now. The run will have taken you closer to being able to finish. Rest and go again and I am sure it will be great.

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate]

Of course you won't give up.

Hills are hard and energy sapping.

You did well to carry on with your session and that run/walk was good training. If you don't have a flat route you can run for these longer runs, you may well have to walk sections, or turn around and stay on the flat.

Everyone says running up hills is great training, but until you graduate cut yourself some slack...

Slowing down at the start of your run too, might help with that stitch.

[Runn in reply to Bluebirdrunner]

Thanks for the encouragement. I think I have to realise I still have a long way to go in improving my fitness. Unfortunately if I start a run from home I am limited in flat routes - there are lots of gradual inclines, not big hills but I really notice them when I am running. I used to really slow down my running when approaching a hill if I knew I had a walk session coming up, with the long runs there isn't the opportunity to do that. I do tend to start too fast too which is something else I need to work on. Sometimes I run at a park which isn't too far away but is nice and flat, I need to drive to get there though so its not so convenient.

[Hidden]

Good runs, learning opportunities and days when you wish you had stayed in bed! They all add something to your knowledge and experience. So chalk it up as a practice and keep on running 🏃