Advice

[Bunnyrunner]

Hi,

I completed C25K at the beginning of May. I’m 53 I’ve been active in some shape or form most of my life but I was never a runner. I just found it boring. I’m a couple of pounds overweight but that’s all. I’m not on any medication either.

I was thrilled to complete the 30 mins but I was about 5 mins off 5km.

After completion I decided that I would just run 20 mins because that was more comfortable and I would build up my stamina. I’ve been doing this twice a week, so about 8 runs since I’ve completed. I also do a dance class once a week.

The thing is... I’m still finding it really hard. My legs are fine, but it’s my breathing which I struggle with. I expected it to be a bit easier and then I could increase my distance or reduce my times. I’m always pushing myself to complete it. There’s no enjoyment and it’s a struggle.

I have a wonderful husband who runs with me. It’s purely my determination that got me through the program and it’s my knowledge that running should be good for me and my desire to do it, that keeps me going.

I just don’t want to feel that every run is going to feel like a chore... I’m still waiting for that time when I actually enjoy it.

Am I alone ? Do I just have small lungs 😄 ? Any advice would be most welcome.

[danis Graduate]

I've found that as I've slowly increased my duration it's gets easier. Upping my target gradually to 35 mins means i can run 30 with no probs. Yes its a struggle at the end but my body is still learning what it can do and all athletes have to push through it, even the pros are knackered at the end of a run.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

" I’m always pushing myself "..........your words.........you should be running 75-80% of your time at a pace at which you can clearly speak ungasping sentences as you run........if you cannot, then you are running too fast. This easy conversational pace builds stamina, with which you can build speed in the remaining 20-25%.

If your husband is going to run with you, then he needs to accept that you will set the pace and you need to do that without compromise.

This is covered in more detail in the guide to post C25K running healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Bunnyrunner Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you for your reply, I’ll read all the info. Fortunately my husband runs at whatever pace I set.... he’s very patient and has been very supportive with all my moaning 😄