Waiting between runs

[BermudaBitch]

Hi, I'm new here so forgive me if this has been asked before! I've just started week 7 and I'm feeling more confident than I was before - my second 25 min run was considerably faster than the first, and although I had to push myself at the end it was definitely doable.

Now I've reached this level of fitness (negligible, I know, to a serious runner, but a big step for me) is it still important to wait a day between runs? Or can I go out two days in a row if I want to? It seems silly not to run when I'm feeling motivated to do it!

[GoogleMe Graduate]

The non-running days are a key part of the programme... the programme is not just about teaching you how to run continuously for 30 minutes, it is about acquiring a habit and sustainability. There are loads of people who have a boom and bust approach to looking after themselves (and the busts always occupy more time than the booms) Running on consecutive days within a few months of taking up running doesn't always lead to trouble - but it does often enough and seriously enough that it isn't worth the risk.

If you are feeling keen to do something (and it is great that you are), it is well worth looking at activities to round your fitness and support your running, so, in particular, strength and flexibility work, whether that's the NHS companion podcast programme called (guess what) Strength and Flexibility or something else. Or just get out for a walk.

[BermudaBitch in reply to GoogleMe]

Thanks, that's really helpful!

[robew88636 Graduate]

You are feeling motivated because of the rest days. Ideally, for a average person, running 3-4 times 30-40mins a week is considered to be a good exercise. Once you have been doing it for 8-12months and depending upon other factors, you add 1 day a week to your run.

Unless you are taking running as a competitive sport, I would suggest you stick to rest days. Your body will need time to heal. Take other activities/ sports on rest days. That will ensure that running doesnt become monotonous later on.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

GoogleMe has said it all Listen to her, and stay safe

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Please take rest days at this stage of your running career.

Enjoy your journey

[Rainbowglittergirl Graduate]

Hiya I'm at the end of my week 7 too. I work shifts and with a busy life too I really struggle to do 3 runs a week with a day off inbetween, so all through this process I have completed two runs in a row if I have felt I could. I don't do it all the time and always listen to my body, I have a dodgy knee so if that is playing up at all then I don't go but if I'm feeling motivated like you sound then I go for, otherwise I never would, inbetween work, life and the rain 😂😂