Week 4 Run 1: All I can say today is ouch... - Couch to 5K

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Week 4 Run 1

PilgrimSoldier profile image
5 Replies

All I can say today is ouch!

Firstly, when Michael spoke up and told me I was only half way through that first 5 minute run, I shouted at him! Then only 90 seconds later when it felt like I'd been running all week he told me there was only a minute left. Then I could have cried!

Then during the second 3 minute run cramp hit my left calf, so I slowed and stretched and then managed 4 1/2 mins of the second five minute run!

Now some 6 hours later my calf still hurts and I'm limping my slow way back to work after lunch! Hoping it's just a pull as it seems to slowly be getting easier!

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PilgrimSoldier profile image
PilgrimSoldier
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5 Replies
misswobble profile image
misswobbleGraduate

You'll be fine. Just keep moving, albeit gingerly

I know! It's so annoying when you're only half way through and you're already a death's door! It makes you proper swear doesn't it. Michael has strong ears, he can take it.

It will get better! Just go very steadily, slow but sure, and you'll get through. You see!

Good luck. PS Hot baths r Us!

Aw hugs! I had a horrible second run with week 4 when I ran out of breath, battled hills and wind and was convinced for about half a day that I was stuck. Im glad to report that week 4/3 made up for it. I finishd on a high, feeling I could have run longer. I think some runs hit us at breakthough point. Like a bow string drawing back, our bodies resist, gather tension and then leap forward x

I loved Mr Smooth (Michael) during my programme, but blimey he tried my patience at times..... in one of the runs he says 'you may like to increase your pace' or something similar

My answer was akin to 'Mr Smooth, you may like to..... off'

But he is in it for the long run if you pardon the pun and will help you through it.

Hope the cramp and soreness disappears.

Happy running next time out

JoanneBrowne profile image
JoanneBrowneGraduate

Oh dear! My first two runs of week 4 were difficult and I lost the love for the programme - was getting stitches and forcing myself on psychologically. Then W4 R3 turned everything around again, my fitness caught up with me and I found a happier pace. Week 5 was going in the right direction and I smashed R3 that week, and now I’m nearly at the end of week 6. I take magnesium supplements to help with muscle recovery (caveat: I’m not a doctor, this isn’t medical a device, etc!). Good luck!

PilgrimSoldier profile image
PilgrimSoldier

Well after an extra rest day the calf is still a little tender but I'm going to go out tomorrow morning and brave the very cold conditions here complete with a new pair of joggers in order to try to keep the legs a little warmer!

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