Thought I'd enjoy it more: I've just completed... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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Thought I'd enjoy it more

Bubbles_1974 profile image
16 Replies

I've just completed the 3rd run of week 4 and I find I'm enjoying it less and less. I am clock watching for the full 5 minutes run time and wishing it was over. Thought I would start to enjoy running but I fear it's not for me :(

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Bubbles_1974 profile image
Bubbles_1974
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16 Replies
IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

Most people, apart from the masochistic tendency, only begin to enjoy running when they get the pace right.

The guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... explains the recommended easy conversational pace at which it all becomes possible and, for most, much more enjoyable.

This slow pace is perfectly adequate to trigger positive adaptations to your body and build stamina and strength.

Stop clock watching...........it is the worst possible way to pass the time.......find a distraction from thinking about running.

Are you running outdoors? Find somewhere beautiful and inspiring to run......... don't just trudge urban streets.

And if you are on a treadmill, even more reason.

Some people just do not have it in them to enjoy physical exertion........so you may just be an unlucky one.......I hope not.

Bubbles_1974 profile image
Bubbles_1974 in reply to IannodaTruffe

I think my pace is ok, I did start off too fast but quickly slowed down when I was knackered 😂 I am currently running on a treadmill so the time is right in front of me, might need to try outside and try to forget about being self conscious. Thanks for the advice, I really want to keep going :)

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor in reply to Bubbles_1974

I would find running on a treadmill mindlessly boring.

You are doing better than I could.

Cjo80 profile image
Cjo80

I’m starting week 4 later and wonder how on earth I’ll manage it... I just about managed the 3 minutes from last week.

How are you finding your stamina? Was it more that you were bored from the 5 minutes??

Bubbles_1974 profile image
Bubbles_1974 in reply to Cjo80

Was definitely more boredom. Legs don't ache, breathing seems reasonable and my heart rate is about 20 beats per minute slower than it was when I started. I can really feel the health benefits so going to try running outdoors and see how that goes

Cjo80 profile image
Cjo80 in reply to Bubbles_1974

I run outdoors and literally surrounded by countryside and fields and always pass fellow walkers and runners. It’s all flat and is a track too so weather doesn’t have to be an issue (if it’s muddy)... running outside when it’s nice and bright completely raises my mood. Try it and hopefully you’ll feel so much better.

w4R1 was ok and managed it ok... I just have a tight right groin this morning 😬

DiscoRunner profile image
DiscoRunnerGraduate

Don’t give up before you’ve learned to slow down. That was a huge turning point for me - firstly my brisk walk could be faster than my run. Then this - m.youtube.com/watch?v=9L2b2... I first saw in W6 and it turned running from a slog to a pleasure.

Give it a go and see how it feels.

Jell6 profile image
Jell6Graduate

Honestly, it does get progressively harder, that's how its planned. However you will already have gained some health benefits.

I find that even if I don't enjoy the actual run, I invariably enjoy the "after run"

Nothing beats the feeling of when it does all come together, and you have a perfect run, to me the rarity makes those runs very special.

And the added joys of buying running gear 😊

RunRunRun13 profile image
RunRunRun13Graduate

Sorry to hear your not enjoying it, between you and me neither did I and sometimes still don’t 😂 but I love the benefits to my health/different body shape and feeling of achievement after the run. Go a lot slower and if you wear a watch take it off (or you will be looking at it all the time) if you run with music get some great tunes going and positivity before you run that you can do this and why your doing it. Buy yourself a little treat after each week to motivate you and hopefully you turn the corner and think it’s not as bad as you thought ! Good luck 👊

Bubbles_1974 profile image
Bubbles_1974 in reply to RunRunRun13

Thanks. I probably do need to look at my music and find some more upbeat songs, it probably has more impact than I realise.

Stick at it bubbles, nothing worthwhile comes easy. Running is a skill, it takes time to develop. When the aches and pains go and your fitness reaches a certain level where you can run comfortably, there's an amazing sense of freedom. It's also brilliant for things like stress. Try and finish this programme, you're SO close. If you still don't like it there's plenty of other things you can do to keep fit. Good luck.

John_W profile image
John_WGraduateAmbassador

Bubbles_1974 How do you physically feel at the end of the 5 minute running bits?

Bubbles_1974 profile image
Bubbles_1974 in reply to John_W

Physically I don't feel too bad, my legs don't ache and my heart rate is much lower than it was a few weeks ago. I'm running on a treadmill and I think that's part of my problem. I've always been really self conscious about running outdoors, think I need to give it a try though.

John_W profile image
John_WGraduateAmbassador in reply to Bubbles_1974

It could be that running outdoors will be a lot more enjoyable for you. I like the treadmill - I find it very useful BUT it doesn't work for many and clock-watching is very common. Many beginners are self-conscious about running outdoors but trust me, NO-ONE cares! I'd recommend you try going to a local path or park as soon as you can. Or even a local athletics track.

Great news re: your HR - that's a really good indicator of your increased fitness. But what about your breathing while you're running? Are you out of breath at all?

What speeds are you choosing for your runs and walks?

Oaktree2 profile image
Oaktree2

I downloaded an audiobook and that was such a game changer for me. Like you I was constantly clock watching or using the timings of songs to work out how long I had left! Consequently it was all turning into a bit of a slog! When listening to a book my mind was kept otherwise occupied and I found my pace slowed down too which helped massively.

I hope it all works out for you :)

JaoJao profile image
JaoJao

Hey are you listening to any music whilst running? I find music is a welcome distraction on my runs. Some people say Audio books is helping them. Also, I’m sure you’ve heard this many times now, go slow, go slow.

I am on W4 next week and I am curious how I will cope with the 5 mins. The 3 min runs at the moment are fine.

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