Do we divorce?

[Denbo64]

We started C25K beginning of January as 4 inexperienced runners with likely similar levels of fitness, though I am a 2 stone heavier than the rest. We graduated having done the majority of the runs together.

It became clear quite early on that I was a bit slower and though I hoped my speed would improve it hasn’t massively, With those in front looping or doubling back from time to time to collect me.

Since graduation we have done a few runs separately, other commitments making it easier etc. From these separate runs 3/4 of us have taken the opportunity and try the full 5K to see how long.

I was very happy with my 37m (what I expected) but the other 2 (without baggage) did 30 and 32 mins

So I now feel I am holding them back....I know they wouldn’t agree but any hints and tips to keeping a combined ability group together, much appreciated.

[Realfoodieclub Graduate]

I don’t really run with people so it is hard for me to comment. I am a slower runner and on the odd occasions go out with people I am very conscious of my pace. The other side of it is you are not running together all the time and a “slower paced “ run for the others is very good training for them, it is one of the runs that we tend to miss but it provides a lot of benefit, so you could be doing them a favour as long as you make sure that you do your slower run on your own at a different time as you will probably be doing a faster pace with them so all in all you could all benefit from what you can offer the group. Try it and see how you all get on I am sure you can all make it work. 😀.

[Denbo64 Graduate in reply to Realfoodieclub]

I never looked at it like that, that’s a really good reason to stay together. I guess the combination of together and apart could work really well.

I am trying to keep to 3x week whilst they are now only 1-2x week, so who knows maybe my commitment will pay off!

[Slinkyminky Graduate]

What are each of your aims? Do you want to improve pace or run further?

Do the others mind looping back?

Maybe do one run a week together and the other two runs seperate? Which sounds pretty much what you're doing?

[Denbo64 Graduate in reply to Slinkyminky]

We have achieved our initial aim, to prove that we can complete the program. We will turn up to a park run together, run separately, celebrate together, then take it from there.

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Running is an individual thing, we often/ usually have different paces.

The thing is no one should be running fast for all of their runs. So why not think of meeting up for a longer slower run each week perhaps?

Also, as a slow runner myself I think the pressure will be on yourself to try to run faster than is comfortable when out running together, that could take the enjoyment out of it. Dont let that happen.

Mix it up a bit, but also ensure you enjoy!

[SlowLoris]

37 minutes is pretty good so soon after graduation.

I suspect your friends are quite happy keeping the group together. You also have your own runs. It's important to run at your own pace. Also nothing wrong with pushing yourself now and again.