Worried about missing some runs.

[5210Runner]

I joined a running group 10 weeks ago. We run once a week, running for longer each week, and have optional homework runs to do on our own. So basically I've been running 3 times a week in total. Running on my own has made a big difference to how I've coped with the increasing difficulty of the group run (we ran for 25 mins this week!)

However, this week I haven't managed to fit in any of my own runs. I'm worried I will struggle in the next group run session. And I've also signed up to do Race for Life next weekend. Any advice gratefully received!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

If you are following C25K then it is advisable to complete all workouts in a given week before moving on. This is a matter of progressively conditioning your body, not just being able to run the duration.

You could probably run 5k tomorrow, but if your conditioning has not been gradual then your injury risk will be raised, which is why training plans exist for running all distances you can imagine.

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Normally I would advise you just to take the run slow and steady but as you say the runs are getting faster each time, the race for life you can still do slowly but the group run, not sure if you want to be left behind, tell the other runners that as you have been off running a little and won't be able do the run as quickly as I was hoping to but I'll still run along with you even if it means leaving me behind, I'm sure they will understand.

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Go an enjoy doing your race for life at your own pace , I think you are too worried about keeping up with your running group and maybe comparing yourself to them which I don't think is a good thing, you are doing great don't let anyone tell you any different. Come back and let us know how you got on at the run good luck 😊😊

[5210Runner in reply to Buddy34]

I did it! It wasn't quite 5K as the course had to be shortened due to flooding. I think it was just over 4K and I ran for the whole distance, finishing in 30 minutes. I really enjoyed it, such an amazing event for an incredible charity.

[Buddy34 Graduate in reply to 5210Runner]

Well done you 😊😊👏👏

[5210Runner]

Thanks for everyone's advice. I managed to fit in a run of my own today ahead of our next group run this week. I coped fine, running for 26 minutes without stopping, doing a distance of 4.3KM. So I'm no longer worried and am looking forward to Race for Life next weekend! I will certainly let you know how I get on Buddy34 😀