The struggle with couch to 5k

[Elsiebea73]

Hi, I am now on week 4 and have done the 1st run. It’s tough and it shouldn’t be.

A few years ago I was an average runner and could complete 5k a few times a week.

Ill health paused my progress and so now I start again.

I’m Loving the app it’s really helpful, however I can’t help thinking it is hindering my ability to run. What I mean is, when you lightly jog it takes a couple of K to get into the stride and become comfortable. The first few weeks of C25K are fab,but once you hit the weeks the runs are longer it gets tougher as when you are just running comfortably the app tells you to slow down and walk, which means when it’s time to run again you are at square one and reaching for that comfort zone again. My legs feel like lead all the time.

Is this making any sense to anyone else? Any tips appreciated in how to get this to work better for me

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

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

Do you know about the toxic ten? You can find out by following the link in the start of the guide.

We all have to accept that age has its effects.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hidden]

In 2 weeks you will be leaving the intervals behind. I'd say just stick with it and remember you are building strength and stamina all the time. Good luck

[Elsiebea73 Graduate]

I did day 2 of week 4 today and I decided to do a better warm up which really helped my performance during the 1st run. Legs didn’t feel like lead so much and found day 2 far better than day 1 overall

[Jell6 Graduate]

Make sure you are well hydrated, that can help with heavy legs🤩

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

Many people find a longer warm up walk useful. I do understand what you mean. When I first started I just did my own thing but my body wasn't ready for it. My massage therapist introduced me to the c25k app and basically told me to do as I was told... by her, and the app 🤣

She was absolutely right and it has given me a great foundation to build on. I'm 13 months on from graduation and am running 2 or 3 times a week up to 15 miles a run... all thanks to my bossy therapist and C25k 😉👍