Prefer longer runs to interval runs, anyone th... - Couch to 5K

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Prefer longer runs to interval runs, anyone the same?

Pancakes86 profile image
9 Replies

I’ve just completed W6R1 and I realised that instead of looking forward to the walking parts, I’ve now realised I don’t like them so much! I know I’ve only got one more left before it’s just straight running until the end of C25K, but I’m actually quite pleased about that!

Don’t get me wrong, I’m no gazelle-like runner, I just like settling into a rhythm and I find the walking bits make me start all over again.

Does anyone feel the same?

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Pancakes86 profile image
Pancakes86
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9 Replies
Jell6 profile image
Jell6Graduate

I didn't realise that I didn't like them until week 6. Its so much harder to go again, especially with the longer running segments, it breaks your rhythm and concentration.

You're nearly at the end of them though 🤩

SlowLoris profile image
SlowLoris

Absolutely. But intervals will always be good training, especially post grad.

Whatsapp profile image
WhatsappGraduate

I think thats the beauty of week 6. Coming after the euphoria of W5R3, it makes you realise that running consistently without all the stop/start faff is actually much more fun.

Millsie-J profile image
Millsie-JGraduate

I can see what you mean Pancakes 😃

Intervals are a great training technique, and lots of long distance runners use run/walk. Jeff Golloway is recognised for the run/ walk technique he wrote about......often called ‘Jeffing’ on these forums.

I think it is a bit of a mind thing........if I walk I always either time the walk....eg I will walk for 1 minute, or I set a marker to begin running again.

Jeffing uses timed runs/ walks, set to suit the individual. It s great method to maintain heart rate too.

So glad you are enjoying the programme 🏃🏽‍♀️👍🏼

I feel your pain - that Week 6 Run 1 is a killer after the 20 min run on Week 5 Run 3... that was my worst run!!

Pancakes86 profile image
Pancakes86

Ah I'm so glad I'm not the only one! I'd like to eventually aim for a 10k so know intervals are key to training...boo!

Just feels so odd now, especially as I was desperate for the intervals at the start!

UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate

I was exactly the same... just running felt easier by week 6. It still does to be honest, I have several interval sessions on my running plan and they’re never as much fun as just running.

Runnellrun profile image
Runnellrun

I just did that same run this morning (wk6r1) and felt the exact same way! The walking parts just made my legs feel a little heavier and more tired than if I had been running. Loving the longer non stop runs! Only one more interval run to go!

damienair profile image
damienairGraduate

I know what you mean, I too prefer just getting into a stride and running. However I have found that over time you can also get into a rut. I was running 5K in about 35 mins for a long time. It was a nice comfortable pace but I could not really get any faster. As I was doing Parkrun more frequently I was getting frustrated with my lack of improvement. So in January I started doing intervals, fast and slow around my 5K loop. I have managed to knock 7 mins off my 5K time now. Intervals as a graduate are very helpful.

Damien

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