Really struggled with this one. Feel a bit like I am going backwards. Managed the w5 run 3 for 20 mins and was really happy but struggling with w6. Anyone else experienced this? Also I am experiencing really stiff hips after running. I am doing stretches before and after but it’s really uncomfortable going from sitting to standing initially after the run and the day after, has anyone experienced this too?
Thanks
Make sure you are putting in a little extra strength and stamina work on some of your rest days.
As the runs get longer, we need to make sure the rest of us keeps up with the legs
The longer runs need you to be strong and relaxed... so.. some non impact work is very useful.
Take it gently and slow down as you move on... start slow and stay slow.. you will get there
Are you doing dynamic stretches before the run and static stretches after the run, as linked to in the guide to the plan?
Are you drinking a minimum of 2 litres per day?
What is your general mobility like in that area?
If it persists consult your GP.
Can’t comment on hips, but in general I think a lot of us found W6 was a “not quite there yet” wake up call. W5r3 is a big accomplishment but W6 is still pushing forward towards that 30 minute goal. Interval training is effective but not that easy! 😄 Get the hips under control but not to worry about going backward. The programme is carrying you forward. 👍
If you watch time lapse film of plants growing you’ll see that natural growth isn’t a straight line progression: it happens in jumps, plateaus and even some regressions. This is all that’s happening to you. You’re asking your body to make some major changes and it’s needing time to adjust. Next time you go out, don’t worry about finished the whole run. Take it slow and steady and enjoy seeing what you can do. Aim to complete the first 20 minutes - you know you can do that, thanks to 5:3 - and give yourself permission to walk after that, if you need to. If you don’t get right through the run, take a note of when you stopped running, and the following time, aim to beat that. It won’t take your legs long to realise they can do it !
As to your hips, I wonder if they’re suffering from impact ? Are your shoes ok ? Try slowing down a little, and if you can, run on grass or hardcore rather than tarmac or paving. That may help. All the best with it x
Week 6 Run 2 completed
Week 6 run 2 failure 
Week 6 Run 2 - Arghhhhh!
Week 6 run 2...in the bag 😊
Week 6 - Run 2 killed me! 
