Need to do better!: Graduated about a month ago... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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Need to do better!

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate
14 Replies

Graduated about a month ago - mainly by sticking to the programme and also by running slowly. Then did first park run which was brilliant and so much fun. Since then I’ve only done to occasional 15 mins once or twice a week. Went out today and tried hard but only 22mins.

Try to stay on top of your running if you can!

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Auden profile image
Auden
Graduate
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14 Replies
UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate

Hi Auden... well done getting back out there. 22 is good and you’ll soon build it back up. Is it the lack of running plan that had you running less? Goal setting is good.

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate in reply toUnfitNoMore

Thanks UNM - yes it probably is lack of goals (plus seasonal distractions). Will up my game and re-focus. I don’t feel good if I haven’t run!

Mummycav profile image
MummycavAdministratorGraduate

Hi Auden ...15 mins is really good...don’t forget that before you started the programme you would’ve struggled for 5 mins?! Think about how far you’ve come, you’re still building your running legs, and lungs....it takes time to build time, no rush, just remember to start off slowly and control your breathing with deep breaths

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate in reply toMummycav

Thanks for the encouragement - much appreciated! I just need to get out more regularly I think. Need to give myself new goals. How do you you manage post graduation?

Mummycav profile image
MummycavAdministratorGraduate in reply toAuden

To be honest Auden , I was on a high after graduation but came down with a bump a few weeks later as I missed the structure of the programme and a goal...but I kept going, just running for as long as I could but made sure I went out 3 times a week...I did feel like I was a bit lost for a while but then I stared doing some interval work and doing the speed & stamina podcasts ever6 now and again, I enjoyed those, they helped my do exactly that, build up my speed and I could run for longer which obvs boost confidence....22 minutes is a really great achievement, it makes for a fab run and that’s something you can build on...one run you might manage 22 mins but then the next you might only manage 10, but that’s ok, remember you are still learning, you’re doing something with your body that you haven’t done before and you need to listen to your body and when it says enough, then that’s enough...you don’t want to push yourself too hard by setting yourself unrealistic goals because that’s when you’ll start with the self doubt....just enjoy being out, no matter how long that’s for....you are a runner now and trust me, building up gradually so that you enjoy yourself will be worth it in the end x

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate in reply toMummycav

Yes, without the structure and goals I’ve lost a bit of focus. Thanks for the advice- I will go out 3 times but not always to do 5k. Well not every time. That makes it easier...

Brilliant response - thank you so much 😊

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

Use it or lose it...........keep going, it is worth it.

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate in reply toIannodaTruffe

Exactly!!

Parkrun is the only thing that has kept me going. Over the summer it was just too hot to run, but I managed to do once a week because I didn't want to miss parkrun. Otherwise I would have stopped and would never start again. Love parkrun and although I originally aimed to go once a month I now do every week.

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate

It’s great isn’t it!?

Jjg123 profile image
Jjg123Graduate

Hi well done for graduating. I graduated at the end of November and I signed up for Race At Your Pace. You pick a mileage goal you want to achieve (I picked 25 miles to be completed in December) and once completed you get a medal! I felt I needed a purpose and another goal to reach 👍🏻

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate

Thanks v much jjg- I’ve not heard of that before- but it sounds exactly what I need. 👍 Congratulations to you too for graduating. 🏃‍♀️

Lapsedyogi profile image
LapsedyogiGraduate

I’ve signed up for raceatyourpace 25 miles in Nov and a similar one for 30 miles in Dec which has kept me to my 3 runs a week (even when I don’t feel like it!). I’m also working my way through NRC’s Guided Runs. There’s one for any mood or length. They really help.

Enjoy the next stage however you decide to progress.

Auden profile image
AudenGraduate

Thanks v much LY. Jjg123 also recommended Race at your Pace. Not heard of the guided runs before either - that sound great- I will give it a go 👍

Thank you for your advice- much appreciated.

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