First run outside, what went wrong?

[Bright-spark]

Since graduating a couple of weeks ago, I’ve kept going, but haven’t really managed to move beyond a thirty minute plod. Well today as I’m away for the weekend with no gym access I plucked up courage to do my first run outside. What a disaster! I couldn’t get my breathing right and my legs wouldn’t work. I barely managed a fifteen minute run before I had to walk, after that I had a couple of goes but just couldn’t sustain any sort of run. I’m feeling pretty deflated after the euphoria of completing the programme. 😬

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Running outdoors is very different to a treadmill, which dictates your pace for you. It may take a few sessions before you get used to outdoors, but it is worth it.

Stick with it and you will get there.

[sofiaO Graduate]

I've done all my runs on the treadmill up till now and on week 8. I'm sure I am going to struggle adjusting to outdoor runs. But it'll be another challenge after I graduate!

[Bright-spark Graduate in reply to sofiaO]

Hope you have better luck. I really don’t know what went wrong with me today. Hopefully I’ll get the hang of it

[Irishprincess Graduate]

You probably ran too fast. I did most of the programme on the treadmill and I purposely slowed right down on my first run outside and all was fine. On the treadmill you set the speed and away you go but outside you constantly have to think about it and adjust accordingly. That takes a little practice. Stick to it and it'll get easier, just consciously keep your pace slow.

[Bright-spark Graduate in reply to Irishprincess]

You may be right as I had no way of pacing myself , I think I was a bit anxious about it which didn’t help.

I’ve just come back from a 2k swim, so I think my lungs must be working ok!

[CrimsonMama]

Don't know about anyone else but I feel like the muscles I use on the treadmill is different to outdoors. And the impact is harder not to mention dogding lots of obstacles like pavement cracks and doggie surprises....

But I love outdoor running! It's worth trying again!

[Bright-spark Graduate in reply to CrimsonMama]

I was running on a rather muddy path, dodging cyclists and walkers. I felt really self conscious which I’m sure didn’t help. I’m going to try again later this week and take my brother with me to see if that works

[Dexy5 Graduate]

Treadmill running is so different to the outside world. My advice is to slow your pace a bit and focus on duration not speed or distance. I did much off c25k on the treadmill but I love being outside now and only ice will force me indoors. Have fun .