2 runs a week enough?

[Rackyabones]

Ok so i just finished week 7 but its taken a month of dropping back and redoing runs. I've noticed that if i run mon wed and frid, by friday I'm struggling. The monday run is always the best in terms of fatigue being low and energy high. I am wondering if i would be better just running every third day. Is this going to be enough to make gains in stamina? Im out every day with the dog anyway walking in between....any thoughts?

[Runon Graduate]

Hi Rackyabones - do not fear - there is absolutely nothing wrong with dropping back and re-doing runs - we all improve at different rates - but look at it another way - you’re at Week 7 which is a massive improvement on week 1. I’d try to stick to the plan if you can as far as running 3 times a week is concerned. It will get easier - but then it is meant to stretch our abilities a bit - that’s all part of improving and although by the 3rd run of the week your body may be feeling tired, it’s this tiredness that helps you develop stamina and eventually makes it seem easier. My advice - unless you’re developing injuries, stick to the plan and whilst walking the dog is good exercise it ain’t part of the plan. Keep going 🤓

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Well done on getting this far! You are doing great.

I dont know your age etc, but I see you have recently had a hip replacement so Im guessing you may be a mature runner like me.

If you think about it you would be running around five times a fortnight rather than six times. That is more than anyone on the couch!

Some runners on these forums have trained for 10k and half marathon races running twice a week.

So i would say listen to your body and do what is right for you. Keep up the walking and also try to do something to improve stamina and strength on your rest days.

Good luck runner!

[Rackyabones in reply to Millsie-J]

5 in 2 weeks does sound better 😁 I'm 44 and on the 2nd side hip wise...

[Millsie-J Graduate in reply to Rackyabones]

You could aim for 5 but if you feel like it after one day’s rest at anytime then go for it.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

That doesn't sound as if it is going to be detrimental to progress, but will of course slow it to a degree.

There is little point in running if exhausted. It should be fun, not a chore.

As Runon says, as you get stronger you may find that you can run more frequently.

Keep running, keep smiling.