I might be a runner & a first 40 min run!

[DiscoRunner]

I graduated in early Jan on my 53rd birthday. I’ve been consolidating my runs since but various things - holiday, 2 bouts of illness & work - have thwarted a consistent 3x30 habit, but every time I can, I have got out and run 3 times a week. Two weeks ago I tried a 35 min run and was fine. I run slowly (the Japanese slow jogging technique) and at this pace I feel I can go on and on. I’ve been mindful of the 10% rule, so for my second run this week I aimed for 40 mins - and I’m staggered and delighted to say I completed it (with relative) ease! I’m still not running 5k quite yet, think it’ll be more like a 50 min run for me, but that’s fine. For the longer runs getting lost in a podcast seems to work really well, and I’ll try MaresV’s accidental audio book tip! And keep the disco for the 30 mins.

For all you in the early stages, or thinking of starting - c25k really really works - I was so unfit when I started this, I doubted I could do it, but needed to try something. To recent graduates - if you can’t get out 3 times every week, go when you can, you won’t be losing fitness and you too can also build on your achievements and do miraculous things! Like running for 40 minutes!!!

[sofiaO Graduate]

Well done to you! I haven't braved so far yet, planning on 37 minutes this weekend!

[E27M14 Graduate]

Well done. I graduated around the same time as you and then due to holiday and work I had 3 weeks off. I added 5 minutes until I realised I had run 2.9miles so the next run I just went for it. I am now running 5k 3 times a week in a little over 40mins (42:20 yesterday).

[DiscoRunner Graduate in reply to E27M14]

Wow that’s amazing! Maybe I’ll get there in under 50!

[Maddee_6333 Graduate]

🙌 woohoo. Go you!

[Tartancat Graduate]

Nice one! That Japanese slow running is great isn't it? I find the run so much more enjoyable when it's slow 😊

[DiscoRunner Graduate in reply to Tartancat]

It just really works for me - and had no pain or injuries. A niggly problem I had in my knee and right hip (before I took up running) have also completely gone. It’s easy when your ageing and feeling those first twinges to think ‘I shouldn’t do this’ but actually I think it’s strengthened me and sorted me! Onwards and onwards

[Tartancat Graduate in reply to DiscoRunner]

I damaged myself twice running (pre C25K when I had no idea what I was doing). But since learning to slow down, like you, I've been injury free. It works!

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Great running, I am still running 30 minutes 3 times per week nearly at 5k just going to keep at it. The weather is amazing for February and just getting used to running in the heat.

You also got to running for 40 minutes well done 😊

[DiscoRunner Graduate in reply to Buddy34]

I’m still going to do 2x30 & 1 x 35 or 40 and get to 5k - eventually!