Week 8 complete... after taking a whole month!

[Helm108]

Time and space means nothing - a week apparently equals a month in my universe!

As the title suggests, I have finally completed week 8, after completing R1 on 5th July. When I noticed that little nugget of information after saving tonight's run in Strava, I was initially disheartened that it had taken me so long, but then I remembered some things:

1) Most importantly - Couch to 5K is to be completed at each individual's pace. The fact I completed Week 8 at all is something I think I can let myself feel proud of.

2) I did complete the three requisite runs... but only after doing many more 'failed' runs in between. Again it's better to have done them, even if they weren't right, than not to have done them at all.

3) In that same month I completed a virtual 5K (ran and walked in one session) for a wonderful charity that raises awareness and offers support to families affected by Group B Strep infections in newborn babies. I also hiked 9km on a camping holiday, and walked 15km while marshalling a race weekend at Silverstone. So I think I can cut myself some slack for not hitting the C25K goals sooner!

The heat this month definitely played a role too. I had to give myself a lot of strong words to stop myself feeling down about lack of progress, but I firmly believe that building up mental fortitude is as an important part of C25K as developing the physical strength!

Roll on week 9 - hopefully with much friendlier weather!

[telford_mike Graduate]

You’re getting good value out of the programme - more running! Hope you enjoy week 9 - just 2 extra minutes. Good luck!

[MVBrown Graduate]

I get what you mean running in the heat does take a lot out of you physically. I did my first two and a bit outdoors.

Someone on the forum did suggest running early morning before 8 am, though I’m yet to try it.

The forecast for the weekend is rain. Now that’s a thought! Weather for ducks not runners I think. But, should I get caught out in it. I may need to swim instead of run.

[Dizzysmum17 Graduate]

Well done you - it’s not how long it takes you it’s the fact that you are doing it that is important. You’ll smash week 9. Life gets in the way sometimes and the heat makes things much more difficult. 😊🏃🏃‍♀️❤️

[Nonnie83]

Thanks for your post. It is taking me forever to get through this programme so it's helpful to hear I'm not the only one and also that it's just ok to go at my own very slow pace.