Week 8 complete..why the week 9 nerves?

[RAnselm]

I completed the last run of week yesterday, sneakily changing from an uphill to a down hill for the last 500m. Felt great afterwards knowing that I could have continued running for longer, but like a good girl stuck to the program and walked. So why am I feeling nervous about completing week 9? Any recommendations on what do after week 9?

[pinkaardvark Graduate]

You'll be fine, as you probably already know; an extra two minutes is far more of a mental hurdle than a physical one. I recall cheating a bit and running an extra two minutes on the week 8r3 run so I knew I could do it, but there was no need. Just take it easy and enjoy the build up to the finish

[RAnselm Graduate in reply to pinkaardvark]

Thanks. It did seem easier to keep running than to walk especially as I was on a flat at that point. Thanks again.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Just relax and enjoy it.

Consolidation is the name of the game, for a few weeks after graduation. Stick with 5k/30 minutes to become comfortable, before pushing on.

Keep running, keep smiling.

[RAnselm Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Sounds good. I'll plan to run a couple of times a week and try to make 1 a park run. But will keep it to a 5 km max.

[Anthie Graduate]

It's all part of the graduation process... The regular tension before taking an exam or the anticipation of what to do next after graduation, the fear of the "void" after so much excitement and progress. But of course, you needn't worry at all since you're more than ready for it! You can get other running targets after graduating once you feel up to it. Enjoy your graduation runs!

[Hidden in reply to Anthie]

That’s such a helpful response Anthie . Ive been feeling that void already in anticipation of my last run. Excited and sad all at once. Thank you for putting it so well x

[Anthie Graduate in reply to Hidden]

You're welcome I work with students so you could say it's my specialty to deal with stress and anxiety for them as for me lol! But you're ready to deal with postgraduation as well: you have all the hills around you as targets!!! I thought of you this afternoon as I was running a small hillock and had to slow down. Not ready for trail yet!

[Hidden in reply to Anthie]

I think I may alternate shorter and longer runs post graduation, just to comfortably build atamina.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Finish the programme and then..the world is your oyster The nerves are probably excitement

As IannodaTruffe says, consolidation is definitely the name of the game. Plenty of 30 minute runs and some 5Ks too... maybe vary your routes as well The stamina and strength have to build up too...this is just the beginning

[RAnselm Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks. Nice to have a picture in my mind of what I will do after graduation. Feeling not so worried now with all the good advice.