W7R1 - really tough: I was really looking... - Couch to 5K

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W7R1 - really tough

Capri- profile image
Capri-Graduate
10 Replies

I was really looking forward to running this morning after running 25 mins last week.

What a killer, I dragged my heavy legs up and down the lanes convinced I would have to stop. I did make it but the program is “getting serious” I’m a bit concerned I’ll stop enjoying it - or will my body catch up. I look longingly at those runners that seam to just keep going and chat to their friends- will I ever join them...

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Capri- profile image
Capri-
Graduate
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10 Replies
Couchpotato2 profile image
Couchpotato2Graduate

I think week 7 is the realisation that this is it now, you are running! You’ve done fantastic to get this far and you’ll get to graduation so dont worry about it. Slow down and just enjoy. Maybe a new route?

Capri- profile image
Capri-Graduate in reply to Couchpotato2

Thanks

I’ve been running on the flat outdoors - I’ve been a bit afraid of the hills but I think I’ll change it up a bit

Couchpotato2 profile image
Couchpotato2Graduate in reply to Capri-

Good plan then the flats will seem so easy! For hills, just keep the effort the same and take smaller steps (at first I felt I was running on the spot!). Have fun!

Mollydex profile image
MollydexGraduate

Some runs are just like that ;-). I find that after a really tough one my next one is better x

DiscoRunner profile image
DiscoRunnerGraduate

Make sure you stay well hydrated on your rest days and your run days too. And don’t be afraid to slow down for the last few weeks. You can always address pace later. This is really about learning to run for 30 minutes. I think it was late in W6 that someone posted the Japanese slow jogging movement video (search on youtube) and that *really* helped turn things round for me as the durations increased. I still run this way as I like the low impact style and I’ve been able to recently add time - so one of my runs is now 45 mins. And, more importantly, I really enjoy the running while I do it. Before, I was running slowly (no choice!) but was pleased when it was over. Give it a whirl it may really help. When you’ve built more muscle and strength and if speed is important to you you can focus on that. But you’re right you do need to enjoy it to get out there. Hope it helps.

Capri- profile image
Capri-Graduate in reply to DiscoRunner

Thanks

I’ll stick with it - I think it’s just the realisation that I no longer have a rest walk to focus on, I’ll have to find another crutch!

DiscoRunner profile image
DiscoRunnerGraduate in reply to Capri-

Maybe a more experienced runner than me could give you advice on this but if after graduation and some consolidation running you still don’t enjoy a long run, you could try out a walk/run balance that does work for you. Good luck!

RunRunRun13 profile image
RunRunRun13Graduate

Congratulations Capri- for getting to Wk 7 ! I completely agree with DiscoRunner and also run slowly, try to look around rather than looking directly infront of you or at the ground. Lots of water and take it slow...you’ve got to the running part now if the programme. I don’t “love” running but am starting to see that I “can do it” and that’s what keeps me going. Good luck ! There is lots of motivation on here from fellow runners 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Islerunner profile image
Islerunner

Totally relate to your post, Capri- I’m on W8 and really finding it hard now. Seem to struggle through each run and I’m not sure why. I’m not going particularly faster.

FionaLamb profile image
FionaLambGraduate

Week 7 run 1 was my worst run. I hated it so much that I wanted to cry and re start at week 1!! But I rested for 2 days and run 2 was a completely different story. You absolutely can do this. A lot of it is mental attitude. On your next run forget about the last one and go out saying ‘I can do this so I will do this’. Good luck. You really do have this x

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