Do I just carry on or do I go back a bit?

[Oddity]

Hi all. On Monday I completed wk5 r2. It wasn't easy, in fact it was really hard, but I did it! Since then I've been suffering with a cold and have had no energy or inclination to run. Tomorrow I'm hoping to get back on track. Question is seeing as the last one was so tough do I try r3 or go back to an earlier one?

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Interesting timing for the question... I say that because I’d advise a nice slow and steady run coming back from illness to see where a runner was at without the pressure of a long run. You’re just about to hit that long run, but for me it’s the same. Dial up the run 3, go slow and steady and see what you’ve got. Don’t worry if you don’t run 20, that can always wait. In theory you’ve lost no fitness so it’s really a matter of seeing if that cold is still affecting you. If you run 10, that’s cool, those 10 will make you better for the next one... if you run 5, then that’s just the same... you may run 15, that’s huge... or even 20 that’s amazing... just make sure you don’t then carry on. Relax, get out there and enjoy.

[Oddity in reply to UnfitNoMore]

Thanks for the swift response. I guess I'll just get out there and see how it goes!

[Parapluieblue Graduate]

Hi Oddity, agree with UNM, give it a whirl, but slow and steady and see how you go; any run is beneficial. Good luck. 😁

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and includes advice on pacing......slow down if you are struggling .........and coming back after a break.

If you are fully recovered, then no need to go back, but be kind to yourself and take it nice and steady.

Enjoy your journey.

[Oddity in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for all your support. Well. I decided to see how I'd get on. And. I've just done the full 20 minutes!!! 😁😁😁😁😁