Hello all, I'm due to do week 5 run 3 tomorrow. I did the 8 minute intervals without much problem yesterday, but it seems like a big jump to 20 minutes without a break.
Anyone have any tips on coping, or experiences on how it went for you on your first time?
Thanks
Slow and steady to start, I took a conscious decision to hardly listen to the commentary, I put together a playlist of 4 songs i really like all about 5 minutes long and just ran to the music.
Get yourself nice and relaxed. You're ready. Take it steady and have faith in yourself (and the programme).
Firstly, don't build this run up too much in your head. It really is just another run on the programme. It is probably the one that takes you out of your comfort zone in terms of what you THINK you can do, but your body is prepared. I could (and often have) go into a long explanation as to why, but I think you just need to trust the programme.
Check you don't go off too fast, settle yourself into a rhythm (this takes a while) and most importantly don't think about the time.
If you struggle, slow down.
It's not as bad as you think it's going to be! We all felt like you do before that run but then it was OK. Have faith in the programme and make sure you go slow and steady, you'll be fine 
slow... chunk it up.... remind yourself that your training has prepared you for this so you CAN do it
Yes, start nice and slow, think of it in five minute chunks, you can do those, just keep on going.
Feel positive before you start.... You will be able to do it...
Go you...
Check out the W5 posts and see how many posts just have a heading 'I did it' or 'OMG' etc., etc.,. It's very doable, we promise.
The key is as you've done so far, take it slow and steady, use your happy pace and you will do it.
Good luck for tomorrow - looking forward to seeing the 'OMG I did it' post
Well after all that encouragement I had to do it! And I did. Thanks for all your replies. I did find it tough, especially around 13 minutes. And then I was desperate to hear the final 2 minute warning! But I got there.
I'm going to repeat week 5 just to give me some more time to build up.
Ailsa
First 20 Minute Run
the dread 20 minute run
How will I run for 20 minutes without having an initial 3 minute run first?
The dreaded 20 minute run !!!
Think you can't do this? Dreading your first 5 minute run? 10 minute? How about that first 20?
