Achy after run 1 of week 9

[Vish-runs]

I finished this run today and won’t say it was an easy run. It really challenged me mentally and I was beginning to tire out by 20 mins even though I knew I’d run 28mins the week before. However I managed to complete the run and felt really proud of myself.

Now the trouble is that I can’t call it enjoyable as other runners have been describing their runs, as while I’m running all I can think about is when it will end! I do feel a great sense of achievement after I complete each run though.

Also I’m so achy today that I am practically waddling around the house and am gonna hit the bed as soon as the kids go to sleep.

Did some of you feel the same?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Slow down!!!

[Vish-runs Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks. Slowing down shouldn’t be hard me 😂 Thanks. Will do that next run.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Vish-runs]

Can you hold a conversation as you run. Not gasped phrases, but clear sentences, as you would when walking. If not, you are going too fast.

Experienced runners spend 70-80% of their running time at an easy pace, because it, along with occasional pushing of pace, is the most efficient way to develop your running body.

Fast is hard, slow is fun.

[Lizzisforliving Graduate]

Hi Vish,

Well done for doing it! I try only to remember the feeling of finishing, rather than the struggle before, but it's not easy. I love that I am doing it, but I wish I found it easier and that I could take pleasure in the physical act, rather than just the achievement. I'm hoping that it'll come, and that we'll find ourselves improving as we head towards spring and warmer, longer days.

Keep it up - nearly at graduation!!!

Lots of love Lizz xxx

[Vish-runs Graduate in reply to Lizzisforliving]

Thank you Lizz xx

[Beccym Graduate]

We all have good and bad runs. When people ask me after a run did you enjoy that I say " I'm glad I did it". The first 10 minutes of any run I find difficult most of the time.

Look at your pace you may be going a bit fast

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Sounds like you would have a more enjoyable time if you slowed right down. Firmly squish any thoughts of speed at the moment (you can be a gazelle later) & think about a comfortable sustainable pace. Slow, relaxed & gentle is good for now. Good luck 😃

[Anthie Graduate]

These are only suggestions... Try to start very slow for your next run: you can run at a walking pace. This could be strange to you but it's actually very good for your muscles and you shouldn't be out of breath. Try to run as lightly as possible: small steps, no kicking the ground. Enjoy your surroundings, looking straight ahead of you. Relax: the more you think about the end, the more you're going to tense and your muscles will be sore. Have you tried to run without the count of time (just the final buzz for the end)? It might feel less stressful as well. By now, it's more of a mental challenge than a physical one. Perhaps take an extra rest day and make sure you stretch tomorrow (and drink), 15 mns, in order to get rid of the soreness. And if you haven't seen it yet, here's a video that might make you run slower

youtube.com/watch?v=9L2b2kh...(Not working as expected?)

In any case, you should be proud for your achievement!

[Vish-runs Graduate in reply to Anthie]

Oh wow! I’m so glad that you posted this video. I will try to slow down even more for my next run (not that I’m fast!)

Hopefully I will begin to find the runs enjoyable once I find my happy pace.

Thank You so much

[Anthie Graduate in reply to Vish-runs]

Just relax and take your time! I got the video from Donna, another member and I've been showing it to everyone who thinks running is about speed lol. Be careful with the technique though: don't think about it for your last runs. I actually ran 6-7 kms last Wednesday with that slow running and landing on the middle-forefoot: my calves were pretty sore afterwards. So don't change anything but your pace. Hope you'll find it more enjoyable!

[Vish-runs Graduate in reply to Anthie]

Thanks for the tip. Yes I think I need to slow down. Beginning to feel a lot more positive about future runs. Just want to enjoy them and not endure them. Hopefully slowing down considerably will help. ☺️

[Vish-runs Graduate]

Thank You All. The encouragement and useful tips and advice have brought me this far and really appreciate the support on this forum. 🙏

[RAnselm Graduate]

I didn;t really like week 9 run 1 as was rather nervous. But then that was gone by run 2 as I knew I had done it before. I also made sure I had a good breakfast beforehand so was not running on empty...and yes as always take it slow.

[Vish-runs Graduate]

Hi All,

I followed all the advice given. Started slow and tried to keep a steady slow pace throughout. And it was so much better this time around. Still got tired but I’m not aching all over as I was after last run.

I also tried to “enjoy” the run and tried not to focus on how much more to go! In the end I ran 4.2kms in 30 mins and am just so pleased.

I know getting to 5k will take time but for now I’ll keep it slow and just enjoy running 30mins at a time.

Looking forward to graduation this Saturday.

Thanks once again.

[DeterminedBear Graduate in reply to Vish-runs]

Excellent! Be proud!