I’ve just signed up here, started the programme early January, so far so good. But.....going to attempt wk 5 run 3 today and have been reading everyone’s trepidation with this...which I definitely share! Had been not looking ahead much and was shocked when I discovered what’s in store. Does anyone know if there is some scientific reason why the programme suddenly ramps up like this?
8 mins to 20 mins step up...: I’ve just signed... - Couch to 5K
8 mins to 20 mins step up...
![Greystones profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/66ba120624b2439cb632aff1e8214c11_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
![Greystones profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/66ba120624b2439cb632aff1e8214c11_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
![Bluebirdrunner profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/eb1e1abfe1d60d255e0666c9da6c5e7f_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Don't worry Greystones, its not suddenly ramping up. Last run was 16 minutes, 2 lots of 8 mins with walking inbetween. Because you were able to do that you are now ready to do that 20 minutes without the walk break..
Yes , you can. Just start nice and steady, think of it in five minute chunks and keep going... It really is possible. Stay positive and get ready to amaze yourself.😊
Go you...
![ellsbells71 profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/a349b1206224a8642c9a2b3d78e4061a_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
I've just completed this run on the second attempt. The advice given to me was slow and steady and believe that you will do it. That advice was so true, I too thought how the hell am I going to get from 10 mins to a full 20 mins I failed first attempt with that mind set but second time music on off I went and completed it to my astonishment. Good luck hope that helps xx
Just shows you a lot of this running lark is as much mental as physical - this week 5 is a surprise/shock. But you've got this far 🏃♀️🏃🏻
![HeleneCorsa profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/9cb690f4b78405797019ee5ed6cefde7_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
As Jan-now-runs said above, it's less of a jump than you think, and your body is ready - what matters here is your mind. Lots of people are nervous about it but it ends up being one of the favourite runs I think, as it gives you a wonderful affirmative boost and makes you realise what you're now capable of. It's also a great run for making you think hard about pacing yourself.
Good luck, and let us know how you get on! I'm sure that, with the right mindset, you'll smash it
![Greystones profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/66ba120624b2439cb632aff1e8214c11_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Thank you so much evertyone...am back from the runand coped ok! Took all the advice...ran really slowly and kept breathing, made a playlist, and found that avoiding a whole load of doggy do on the canal towpath was quite a good distraction!
Onwards and upwards. Will be 60 next month so feeling amazed and delighted, all my life to date I have been convinced that I cannot run.
![Bluebirdrunner profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/eb1e1abfe1d60d255e0666c9da6c5e7f_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Fantastic! Well done...😊..it does feel great doesn't it...You will be smiling all day!
Onwards and upwards indeed...😊xx
Well done
![Millsie-J profile image](https://images.hu-production.be/avatars/c4f7f25ecd36bd6ce5be19fbfc08168a_small@2x_100x100.jpg)
Well done Greystones.
Maintain that positive mindset for the rest of your runs, enjoy the journey!