End in sight 😁

[ramsgaterunner79]

So heading into week 9 and although I’m still enjoying it I am finding some of these longer runs a struggle. I’ve been ill recently with a chest infection and when I went back out still didn’t feel right so not starting week 9 till Monday so I can clear it once and for all. Is it just this or does everyone find these longer runs gruelling at times? I’m ok by the end but the first half is much harder. How long are people stretching for before and after? Are there other stretches that I could be doing to make it ‘easier’ or is it just because I’m very new to running still and this is just another challenge to get through? Advice would be great as I want to get better and continue this after graduating. It’s been such a good thing for me to do 💪😁

[Hidden]

I use these as they're associated with the C25K. The advice seems to be use these static stretches AFTER your run. Prior to your run cold stretching is not advised generally and I use dynamic stretches such as walking lunges, high knees jogging on the spot, alternated with butt-kicks and some side to side toe-taps. I pretty much make it up as I go for these, so perhaps look online at dynamic stretching if you want a proper routine. Well Done! on coming this far and Good luck!

nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/h...

[Hidden]

I struggled wk 9 and thought what am I doing 😩first 10 minutes was not enjoyable I felt like giving in (still feel that way )

I then get into a pace which suits me , and I am happy ..

Feeling positive is key also 👍🏻

As for stretching I don't 5 minute walking is enough warm up

@ the beginning I really suffered with hip pain etc list was endless ,

I bought a foam roller and gym ball , and even did yoga stretches

To be honest if I had to do stretches every time I decided to do a run I wouldn't go 😉I definitely don't stretch at end either but then I am old school 😂

It took me forever to graduate

But I got there

Some say run 3times a week

I run to suit me no one else .. This is my race

I don't think I will ever do 10k

But what I do is up to me

I am sure you will graduate but do what you want to do 😉

[ramsgaterunner79 in reply to Hidden]

Thanks so much! I’m glad I’m not the only one. I really enjoy it so I don’t want to start putting pressure on myself and then not enjoying it.

[Ripcurlrana71]

Hi! I’m in week 9 and from about week 7 I’ve been doing dynamic stretching before runs. I needed more than the pre walk.

I googled some pre-run exercises and they’ve really helped. Found after the running did a few stretches until my legs ‘felt the stretch’. Plus have learnt to not sit down straight after but keep my legs moving.

Hope that helps and all the best for week 9. You’re almost there!! 💪🏼

[limberlou Graduate]

I do the stretches from the App 100% Army Fit. Find they help me a lot - not too strenuous either.

[Jell6 Graduate]

I find the first 5 minutes ok, and then the next 10 are my mental battle ,will I do 20 or 30?

After about 15 it seems to settle, and generally the last half is easier. But every run is different, especially if you run outside.

Regarding stretches, I probably should, but I don't. Maybe when I am running further/longer.

Good luck next week 🤩🤩

[Tasha99 Graduate]

I don’t stretch but maybe I should. Also find the first 2k hard but do so many: it’s the toxic 10 or 20.

[MarciePower Graduate]

I don’t do any stretches at all ! I find the brisk 5 minute walk either end is enough.

[ramsgaterunner79]

Thanks for all of the replies and useful advice! Will take it all on board and use it to take this on after graduating. This has been such a life changer for me and I have never felt so fit and healthy despite still being very overweight. I’m sure it will get easier. Just got to keep going! Happy running everyone 🏃‍♀️ 🏃‍♂️💪😁

[Tasha99 Graduate in reply to ramsgaterunner79]

It’s amazing isn’t it! Well done!

[ramsgaterunner79 in reply to Tasha99]

Thank you x