Week 4 day 3

[Geo-Lesley]

What a difference a week makes. With each run I can feel the difference in my recovery times.

The first week I struggled to regain my breath between runs, I was all hot and sweaty and was exhausted, exhilarated but exhausted.

Now the runs are longer but I'm recovering more quickly. I push through to the end of each run and if I struggle I slow down. I don't stop early.

I feel better about myself. I can do this. I try not to anticipate the coming week. I take each longer run calmly without building bridges. I know, because of the 1,000's who have already completed the programme, that I can do this. The trick is to run slowly. I can walk faster but I am running.

Today I went on the route that starts downhill and I found myself running faster and longer because my strength and stamina are increasing. The downside was that I had longer to run and walk back, all uphill, but I did it. All who have gone before me have blazed a trail that I know that I can follow. Every person who graduates encourages me to continue this.

My dog had a shock this morning as we passed a farm where they are raising Christmas poultry. The sound of agitated geese and turkeys freaked him so we ran past and he kept glancing back expecting I don't know what

It's another beautiful morning. Venus kept watch as we walked and ran.

Have a happy day, see you in week 5!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Lovely positive and helpful post!

Full of great advice for folk.. listening to your body, learning as you run... lots of great tips for the folk just starting this journey. Thank you!

You poor dog..,, but bet the birds feel worse I have a wonderful image of you running with the morning sky and Venus high above, and the sights and sounds of the countryside all around!

Happy day to you. too, and onto Week 5. Believe me, you are totally ready for it!

[Geo-Lesley in reply to Oldfloss]

Thank you, Oldfloss. It is people like you who help, enormously, people like me.

I'm sure that the poor birds are feeling pretty rotten. They should be out chasing us instead of penned shouting.

It is a beautiful feeling when you are running with empty roads and stars shining above.

[rolysmate Graduate]

well done and a wonderful post,suprising how quick our bodies improve in both strength and stamina.

Slow and steady and trust in the programme is the way

[Geo-Lesley in reply to rolysmate]

Thank you, Rolysmate. It's an amazing programme

[rolysmate Graduate in reply to Geo-Lesley]

still suffering with sore throats but think I'll be heading out soon!

[Geo-Lesley in reply to rolysmate]

It's a beautiful morning here. Cool but bright and sunny. I hope that your sore throat clears up soon

[Mummarunna Graduate]

The achievements you reap from running are amazing on all levels aren’t they? Such positive steps and all in the right direction ... keep going you’re doing great 👍🏻 🏃🏻‍♀️🏃🏻‍♀️🏃🏻‍♀️x

[Geo-Lesley in reply to Mummarunna]

Thank you, Mummarunna. It's fantastic when you notice the changes and improvements. Everyone should try this

[Sadie-runs Graduate]

Lovely run! But poor pooch. 🙁🐶 And poor birds.

I remember the moment well when I realised I was recovering my breath so much more quickly between runs. It was a joyful moment, and not very far into the programme! Really spurred me on.

You are doing wonderfully, Lesley. Keep up the good work.

Sadie-runs x

[Geo-Lesley in reply to Sadie-runs]

Thank you, Sadie. I'm enjoying it so much...I just hope the dry weather continues x

[Sadie-runs Graduate in reply to Geo-Lesley]

Me too, Lesley! I'll do it, but am not a fan of running in the rain. I started C25K in August, and I miss my gentle, warm sunrise runs in the park. x

[Geo-Lesley in reply to Sadie-runs]

I don't mind it too much but I hate wearing waterproofs. The trouble is that when it's wet and cold my joints ache. I was going to say that I wished I had started earlier but I've started when I needed to start. I'm enjoying it now. Roll on spring when it's not frosty and dark and we can both enjoy early mornings with the stars, the birds, the peace and quiet, and little traffic x

[HeleneCorsa Graduate]

This really is the perfect post and, I think, captures the essence of the programme. How wonderful to feel that your fitness is building up and that you are learning to read and respond to your body.

I hope you have a happy day too. Onwards and upwards! I think you are really going to enjoy week 5.

[Geo-Lesley in reply to HeleneCorsa]

Thank you, Helene. I'm looking forward to week 5 and all that it brings

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Just seen this. awesome! I'm about to do week 4/2, and I have loads of hills here (so run slower than i can walk up them) so this is an inspiration.

[Hidden]

This made me smile and, as others have said, sums up this programme perfectly!

[ejvcruns Graduate]

Love it! Weeks 4, 5, and 6 are magical. Enjoy!!