Starting a 5k training program in May

[aldewyne]

I'm gonna be getting myself into a 5k training program in May (currently in school, about to start exams, so it's not a great time to be adding anything to my schedule). I'm not specifically doing Couch to 5k, but the general premise is still the same.

A potential schedule I'm looking at is a Sun-Wed-Sat morning running schedule (with off days of light walking, yoga, or core). I know people often recommend avoiding running two days in a row, but where my work schedule is strictly Mon-Fri, I was thinking it might be nice to use the weekend to get in my runs instead of the good ol' Mon-Wed-Fri I used to do years ago. Do you think this would be detrimental and should I consider reworking? Or should I give it a try and see how it goes?

[RainbowC Graduate]

The rest day in between runs is important for your muscles to heal and strengthen, so it’s really not a good idea to plan to run two consecutive days regularly. Not to mention the practical issue that as the runs get longer your legs are likely to be noticeably tired the day after a run, and it would make it unnecessarily difficult on yourself. Try and see if you can build in slots to run more evenly through the week - many of here have full-time jobs and other commitments; some people get up early to run (shudder!), others of us run evenings...

[aldewyne in reply to RainbowC]

The hard part is less that I work a lot, more that I work inconsistently. I'm a casual employee, which is awesome as a student because it makes it easy to pick up shifts during the summer and holiday break, but unfortunately, it means I don't know when I work often until the morning of. This can make it hard to plan a consistent schedule for exercise.

I'm considering possibly trying to completely rewire myself to go for 4am workouts, but I'm such a night owl that the thought distresses me a lot

[RainbowC Graduate in reply to aldewyne]

I can understand your aversion to the idea of early morning running - I admire those who do it, but simply can’t face it myself! It may be that you designate a couple of days as ‘running days’ but with a flexible approach to timing, so if you can run in the morning (at a more sane time than 4am!) you do, but if it turns out that you’re working and can’t run until after work, you do that instead.

You sound keen and enthusiastic, anyway, which is key for succeeding, so good luck! Keep posting here to let us know how you get on, and for support

[aldewyne in reply to RainbowC]

That might be what I have to do, plan the days but not the time.

[Beccym Graduate]

Good luck with your exams.

You might find running helps with stress if you start now. Create a revision, work plan but add the fun stuff first.

It is okay to wait until after exams as well. Don't let work take advantage of you, I know the money is nice but we all need balance.

[aldewyne in reply to Beccym]

I definitely have to hold off until after exams, just because I'm currently at risk for academic dismissal (I'm not the only one, it's a very intense program). It's a bit difficult to find time for fitness when you're struggling to find time to study!

I actually used to run a bit during my undergrad, the stress relief is a huge reason why I want to pick running back up again!

[VictoriaRuns Graduate]

You rest days are just as important as your run days in terms of building up strength. Your muscles tear when you exercise, and need that day to heal to be stronger. If you skip a rest day, you're making yourself weaker essentially, and wont progress as quickly, or at all. Depends what your goals are I guess as you seem pretty adamant you want to run on consecutive days, but I don't think anyone here will advocate that for you.

I understand your schedule is erratic, but it is only a 30 minute segment of exercise. I think you will find time if you want to.

Let us know how you go

[aldewyne in reply to VictoriaRuns]

Thanks

I'll try to make an different schedule work for me. It might take some effort but it will be worth it in the long run if I can male it work

[VictoriaRuns Graduate in reply to aldewyne]

Definitely. Be kind to yourself is the most important thing 👍