Well, after a sneezing fit last night, I woke up to a cold this morning. Meh. The very day I had planned to finish week 5 with the 20 minute run. Believe it or not, I was really looking forward to this run, my chance to stretch my running legs out a bit, see what I could do, test how far I had come in terms of stamina. I was actually even excited!
Atchoo!
But you know, I am a stubborn soul, and after assessing my body and how it felt, and establishing that my symptoms were head up and not neck down, I slipped on my favourite running tights, downed a glass of water and headed out. My legs felt good, my mentality was right, I was feeling positive, despite a runny nose.
I ran a different route today - for two reasons 1) it was flat all the way, unlike the slight inclines I have on my usual route 2) I thought a change of scenery might distract me from any blips. And it worked! I went super slow, but established a good steady rhythm. My breathing was fine, and I was not at any point huffing and puffing, my legs were holding me up nicely, though going super slow helped with that, and I really could not go any faster. I am so proud of my lungs. Thank you lungs. I am so sorry that I smoked for 20 years of my youth, I hope you are recovering, dear lungs. (I gave up smoking 6 years ago).
I had to do it today. I had to. And I ran for 20 minutes without stopping, not once.
For anyone doubting themselves, please don't. This programme works so well. Just a reminder – week 1 run 1 I could barely keep going for 60 seconds, and spent my recovery walks panting and puffing. It was so hard. But the difference between week 1 and week 5 is huge. And the amount of stamina you build up is phenomenal. Not saying it was easy; it wasn't. But achievable.
Sadie Does Run xx
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Yes!!! Go you!!! Well done, and as you said to me recently, I'm so proud of you, I just knew you could do it And I'm glad you did, because I need you for inspiration!!
Seriously, you're doing great, and you should be very proud, and your encouraging words are a real help to me, trying not to think about W5R3!!!
Aw, thanks Neil! It is amazing how much of this is mental and having a positive mindset. I honestly wasn't worrying about this run; not from a place of arrogance, but from a sixth sense that worrying would only ruin it for me. I am not going to self-sabotage!
It is lovely sharing this running journey with you; and you are doing grand. I also now feel a serious responsibility to keep inspiring you! But honestly, you should inspire yourself Neil, you are so committed, and doing all the right things.
If you do find yourself thinking about W5R3, try doing it with a sense of excitement, a belief that you will do it (cos you will), and imagine how accomplished you will feel when you are done. You have been working up to this for 5 weeks. Your legs, lungs and mind will be ready.
Yes, I agree. Completely mental lol! Seriously though, your insights and positivity really help. I still can't quite believe that as someone who has done little exercise and is a general sports-phobe, could get this far. Also I can't wait to see how you do
Sadie, you've now broken the back of C25K, while the other runs will still be a challenge you've done the hardest part, you beat yourself, W5R3 is a psychological test, the program prepares your body for running but it's you that must break the mental block and you have, well done.
Here's what I have gone by:
If I can run for 20 minutes then I can run for 25,
If I can run for 25 minutes then I can run for 28,
If I can run for 28 minutes then I can run for 30.
Thank you Lee! I think you are totally right! It is breaking that mental barrier that brings the real breakthrough. And I love what you have gone by – new mantra alert! I shall be chanting that all day long!
I am totally expecting each new week to be challenging – but hey, I love a challenge. I have also enjoyed reading about your running journey, Lee. You are doing so so well. Thank you for the support.
Thank you, I've got further than I ever expected to if I'm honest, Oldfloss' advice helped me out with regards to the slow and steady, it also formed the basis of my plan for after I finish the program, to quote Jeremy Clarkson - SPEEED! In a controlled way of course.
I live by Oldfloss' advice too! Because it works. I would not have got so far if it wasn't for the ole slow and steady mantra. Speed is not my concern right now. That's for later, when I am fitter. A little bit at a time. x
Thanks Mummycav! If you'd have told me 5 weeks ago that I would merrily go out for a 20 minute run whilst I had a cold, I would have guffawed out loud! I do hope I give others courage by posting about my experiences. You have to pay it forward, right??
Really great to read your post on The Big One. Well done to you and what an achievement. I'm thinking of finding a flat route for next week for exactly the same reason to avoid letting mental doubts creep in and affect me. Great to share in your journey x
Thanks Ren! I will tackle my normal route next run, but for this milestone thought I should give myself best possible chance! Don't doubt yourself- ever! You got this. 😀😘
Well done you! I did my W4R1 tonight, Husband came along too with his post marathon aches and pains. Didn't think I'd manage 5 mins but you know, it wasn't as bad as I imagined. Roll on W4R2 xx
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And I'm glad you did, because I need you for inspiration!!
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