I've completed first run of week 5 this morning and towards the end of the run I could feel my shin splints coming along.
Although each week is a steady progression an tougher than the other, do believe week 5 is the toughest one yet. From now on runs become more mental than physical.. of course I/you need to overcome the mental and the physical, but if we believe we can do it, we can.
Here are some things that helped me run so far - wanted to share with those running earlier weeks.. and for me to remember as I attempt to run this week:
1. Breathe - everyone says it, but at least for me, the more I was talking in and out my lungs the farther I could go
2. Don't look at the clock - i used to wait to see how much time I had left for my 3 minute or 5 minute run to finish.. but when i stopped doing that i started to enjoy the run.
3. Enjoy your run - by about week 2 I realised that if I don't enjoy my runs I'm not going to finish my 5k. So I told myself and did things to enjoy my run. For e.g. being a particularly hot summer, a slightly cooler time of day would make me enjoy my run. It might be music for others. Whatever is your thing that will help you enjoy your run, find it.
4. Energy - although in the early days the thought of my impending next run consumed my day (it happens now too), I found that running is what you do along with everything else you were doing. It doesn't matter if you are tired, or had a hard day - when you suit up for your run, you are a new you. I found a new energy, as if it was in a separate box that I hadn't opened until now!
5. Build your strength for better runs - I started walking at lunch time with my colleagues for about 3k each day - a brisk walk that took the mickey out of me (more than my runs).. and somehow I started walking faster and feeling a lot better. I walk 5 days a week - even on my run days. Do believe this has helped my overall fitness level. So if something else is your thing, do that as well. You will be able to run all the better for it.
Onwards and upwards. See you at the finish line.
Fish, chips and mushy peas!
Hello all - 71 years old and hoping to run!
FAQ Post C25K COMPLETED…….WHAT NEXT?
