First time posting but have been quietly getting through the weeks and (almost) starting to believe I can do it - up to week 8 run 2 with no problems and a growing sense of achievement- I never though I could run for 28 minutes ! And then tonight, w8r3 and I couldn’t get beyond 18 minutes. I had to walk/run (mostly walk) the rest of the way - so disappointed. It was very hot and my route was a little hillier than usual - but why was it so hard? Is that normal? No amount of mind over matter worked. Any advice?
Why was it so hard?: First time posting but have... - Couch to 5K
Why was it so hard?
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Don’t underestimate what the heat will do to a run. Even the most seasoned runner can come to blows on a hot day. It is easy to get dehydrated and just the heat all make a run harder. Well done for getting out there in the heat and doing 18 mins. Just do the run again in a couple of days and make sure you drink well 24 hours before, I am sure you will be fine.
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“It was very hot and my route was hillier than usual...” Two strong reasons.
You’ve not mentioned how much rest you’ve been taking between runs/series of runs. I found if I did 4 runs in 7 days I was exhausted.
You’ve not mentioned anything about food/drink/rest over the weekend. If you have had troubled sleep due to heat or been hitting the barbecue/alcohol or out in the sun and not hydrating well, all will affect you.
Take it as a practice run. Have at least one clear day off. Have another go.
Thanks Jay, all likely reasons. Will try again on Weds - maybe early morning this time!