What is the science behind C25K?

[Berksrover]

Just done W8R1, ran for the 28 mins covered just over 4km in that time (according to the treadmill) no way could I have done that when I joined about 7 weeks ago, I do believe my Mental strength has improved but there must be physical changes too, without getting too geeky about it, what are the key changes?

[Rignold]

The science behind it is progressive overload. The key physical changes are strengthening of the bones, soft tissues, joints, muscles becoming accustomed to greater use, cardiovascular system developing greater endurance.

[Runningc25k in reply to Rignold]

That is not the science that is the outcomes

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

This post covers the basics healthunlocked.com/couchto5... but it is as Rigs says, to do with progressive overload.

If you really want to know, read The Runner's Body by Ross Tucker and Jonathan Dugas.

Our bodies are amazing!

[Berksrover Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for the replies, didn't appreciate the bone strengthening, ad you say our bodies are amazing, already thinking of what to do once I have cracked the 30 minute run, do I try to speed up to achieve the 5k in 30 mins or go for greater endurance?

[Bells411 in reply to Berksrover]

Also did w8r1 yesterday and find it nothing short of a miracle that I can keep going for 28 mins. My pace is v slow, covered about 2 miles, but my plan is to crack the 30 minutes and then work on my speed

Good luck for the next few runs, and well done!!

[Berksrover Graduate in reply to Bells411]

As they say, it's the time not the speed and distance that are key, good luck for your next few runs

[wyersmith Graduate]

Say what you like, I think it’s witchcraft. 😃

[misswobble Graduate]

As an old biddy this bone thing interests me. Apparently we can lay down new bone through exercise and eating right. I am giving it a go 😃 💪

[Runningc25k in reply to misswobble]

Yes weight-bearing exercise does indeed build bone density and reduces osteoporosis. This happens to all of us as we age but particularly post menopausal females.Diet wise eat foods high in calcium such as dairy products. For more variety Google foods high in calcium. Good luck.

[JennyH10 Graduate]

I’ve just done week 8 run 1too Berksrover! I’m finding this whole thing fascinating too. I’ve lost a little bit of weight but I’ve definitely lost more inches 😊

[Berksrover Graduate in reply to JennyH10]

I started dieting at the same time ad starting C25K, have lost weight and inches, not sure how much is due to what, but its all good so will keep on doing the same, see you at the finish line!