Whoop!!

[Crikey47]

Despite the heavy winds and rain this morning I headed out along the river for a tough run #3 of week 4. I can't believe how quickly these past four weeks have gone...and I'm still alive! 😂 Even though I have had an annoying chesty cough as a companion over the last three weeks, which I just seem to be struggling to shift, I have managed to get through the programme every other day without fail, and I'm utterly chuffed. No injuries, and I have to say I'm really beginning to enjoy the runs, and particularly that post-run feeling of achievement. Before I'd started I'd been pontificating for months, so I'd just like to say to anyone who's just started out, go for it. The programme is brilliant, the support is fantastic, and you can do it, no matter how terrible you feel when you first set out. Together with my plant based diet, I really feel this programme will help me lose the weight and gain the fitness I want, as well as make time for myself which has been so lacking over the last 20 years. Thrilled to bits and looking forward to the next 5 weeks! One thing I have found that's really helped me mentally is NOT to look at what the programme has in store for the weeks ahead and just take each run as it comes, once I'm out the door I'm committed, and I just have to do it. Has anyone else found that?!

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Congratulations on getting to run 3 of week 4 Crikey47, happy to hear that you managed that run despite the adverse weather conditions. No injuries which proves that you have ran slow and steady during the last 3 weeks and I know that you will certainly continue to run that way until you graduate 😁. Good attitude you have on not looking at what the program has in store for the next coming weeks, certainly that is not the case for most people including myself who do look ahead so I will not spoil it for you by telling what is in store for your remaining weeks on the program. 😊

[Crikey47 Graduate in reply to AlMorr]

Thanks for keeping the spoilers to yourself...! Yes, it is slow, but consistently so, hopefully once I've built up stamina I will be able to have a better pick up and work on the technique more, then speed can come later. I just want fitness and to enjoy the exercise more than anything else.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to Crikey47]

You have exactly the right approach.. slow runs build up the running legs and increase strength and stamina... Brilliant..keep posting please

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Huge well done... but do make sure that chest gets better!

As the runs get longer, we do need strength and stamina... and running with a chest infection can be quite unwise...

[Crikey47 Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

I know, but it somehow makes me feel better... the deeper breathing helps to shift the mucous, and other than the cough I don't feel unwell in myself. I will listen to my body and rest when I feel it's not a good idea. X

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to Crikey47]

Okay 😉

[Crikey47 Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Even managed wk5 run 3 yesterday - 20min non-stop!! Last time I ran for that length of time I was at Uni doing a karate warm up run and nearly died - 27 years ago! Won't let these lungs stop me now...

[Purdyi-18]

I’m on last run of week 3 and unlike you I have looked ahead. Week 4 looks a huge step up. How did you find run 1 of week 4??

[Crikey47 Graduate in reply to Purdyi-18]

It did seem a leap from 3 to 5 min, but the recovery in between was adequate, which enabled me to repeat it...and I really do think not looking ahead helps because you don't have time to get into the negative 'I'm never going to be able to do that!' mindset, which I know would discourage me, and before long I'd find that the washing up or getting on with with work would suddenly take priority again.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Good running and I certainly agree that you should only spend mental energy thinking of the run you’re facing.

Without giving anything away... week 5 is the best week... you can do it... enjoy!

[Crikey47 Graduate in reply to UnfitNoMore]

Finished wk5 yesterday, can't believe I've got this far!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Very well done you... especially since you are not on top form!

Take it steady and do listen to your body.. move on into the next weeks slowly and steadily... the runs are different, ( they need to be to move us forward) but you are ready for each and every one...

I empathise with the cough.. I had mine hanging on for over a month... ( no running.. much too wheezy)

The running is addictive and the physical and mental benefits are incredible...and it is great that you are feeling that affinity to the running at this stage.