Too much too soon?

[OliverJames]

Good morning all, I'm new and just wanted to ask some advice please. This morning I completed the W4 D3 run. I have been pretty steady since starting on July 17th and by running on the odd consecutive day I am a little ahead of schedule. I usually run first thing in the morning around 0530/0600. My question is that I am now keen to join the local Hash Harrier running group, they meet on a Tuesday night (tonight) and run for between 60-90 mins. Do you think this will upset the C25K training or can I do this in Tandem? Thanks in advance. : )

[Nibor5 Graduate]

Personally, I think this sounds like a little too much. I'd wait, a 60 to 90 minute run (even if very slow) when you're still training to get to 30 minutes sounds like you'd be risking injury.

[womblejogger Graduate]

i found i couldn't run consecutive days I needed a day's rest in between to recover... can't see it upsetting the c25k but wouldn't want to run for longer than i could currently comfortably run at, do they do a c25k or an introduction to running group, most running clubs tend to have mixxed groups that might be at different levels. go along and see it might be for you it might not what have you got to lose?

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to womblejogger]

That's what I thought. Even brought my best running gear to work with me today (swimming shorts and a casual t-shirt!) Starting to think I should be patient now...

[womblejogger Graduate in reply to OliverJames]

what i have been told multiple times is not to get too far ahead of yourself the c25k gradually introduces you to running gaining distance and stamina, check the club has a c25k course most do you could always tag along for that as being part of a group might be a good benefit whilst starting out.

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to womblejogger]

I really don't mind running on my own. I find it is a great way to start the day. Having said that, I'm also looking forward to meeting fellow runners and expanding my social circle. All of the posts and support on this forum have been a huge inspiration to actually lace up the trainers and hit the road first thing in the morning. Such a great time of the day to be out and about.

[misswobble Graduate]

I would leave it. I would not do consecutive runs either, not at this stage

All good things come to those who wait. You could blow this if you do as you suggest. Rein yourself in 🙂

You can join your group later. It will still be there.

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to misswobble]

OK, I think you are right. I will take a rest day and think about the club after completing the course. I would be gutted if I did any harm now. Thanks for the replies.

[misswobble Graduate]

On your rest day your running legs get built. It's when the magic happens 💪🏃✔️🙂

[GoogleMe Graduate]

The days between the running sessions are part of the programme. Not only do they ensure you are ready for the next session and protect you from injury, they also subtly teach you better self-control. There are countless people who decide to take up running and are really enthusiastic... but don't keep it up long term.

This programme is explicitly designed to help you develop a running *habit* as well as the physical ability (and of course if you get injured you can't run) Most of us experience that giddy "I really want to run" feeling when it is not a run day... but that often prompts people to try some other form of activity those days to balance out and protect the running - strength and flexibility work for example.

Joining the running club is a great long term goal but I'd suggest completing the programme first and working up gradually from 30 minutes until you are closer to their usual run time. It may be they welcome people who are only going to be running with them for part of the time, at least initially (and if you are wanting to join a club it sounds as though it is the company you're after) but it sounds as though you've not yet learned to keep yourself safe. The club will still be there when you are ready.

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to GoogleMe]

Point taken. I am keen to keep pushing myself and want to keep going. I guess I'm feeling the early symptoms of a running bug. I will sit tight and let the magic happen as it is prescribed. Might go for a cycle ride instead. Thanks all. OJ

[davelinks Graduate]

By all means Cross-Train on the running rest days, walking, swimming, cycling..

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to davelinks]

Will do. Thanks Dave.

[61trying Graduate]

Can only echo all the other posts. The programme really does work if you stick to the regime

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to 61trying]

Don't worry, I have been well and truly told now. I shall resist the urge and go for a cycle or a walk instead. I am surprised at how keen I am to be honest.

[runswithdogs Graduate]

Ah, the HHH are a fun bunch. I ran with them in Hong Kong and I hope to join my local group at some point. Strange I never see them mentioned on this forum. For me, I'm waiting until I can run for 60 minutes again (I'm coming back from injury). I know some groups have folks that do a lot of walking and short cuts to the pub, but it's awfully tempting in those group situations to do more than is good for you. Of course, the ones at the back run less due to all of the misdirection and wrong turns for those at the front. Perhaps joining them could be a good goal for the winter to keep you inspired and on track, and in the meantime keep plugging away at the plan. And it doesn't hurt to send them an email and see what the group composition is like.

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to runswithdogs]

I have been in touch with them. The idea sounds like a lot of fun, and they are certainly welcoming. they said there is a complete range of abilities and I should just turn up. (Hence why i brought my gear with me today). However, I am now resolved to finish the plan first and then branch out into Parkrun community and the HHH, after graduation.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Take misswobble 's advice is my advice too

It will all still be there

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Yup. Don't worry. I have decided to go home and start the strength and flex instead.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Just because you can, doesn't mean that you should.

It takes quite a few months months to build musculature that can safely cope with that sort of duration and also running on consecutive days. When you run you create micro tears in your muscles which repair and strengthen on your rest days, not while running.

That said, some hash groups have members who only run part of the runs.

Personally, I would wait until you can comfortably run the required duration before joining a bunch of drinkers with a running problem. I could show you a very sad post that reflects your title but I think you have got the message.

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Sage advice as always Sir. Thanks

[Razouski]

I'm not going to add to the advice, but just say that this C25K can create a real habit. I love running now, and can't believe that 1 year ago I had never run in my life before, was recovering cancer, and didn't think I was capable of running. Now I have to take my running kit with me when I go on holiday or away for the weekend.

It sounds like you may have got the bug...

Happy running.

[OliverJames Graduate in reply to Razouski]

Thanks Razouski! I am going away at the end of the month and will def be taking my running gear with. (Would have said you were mad if you had told me that a 5 weeks ago) It's amazing isn't!