The build begins

[DaiFit]

W2R1 completed and positivity and sense of achievement for having started this is generally most pleasing. I also feel, however, the breaks on my roller coaster addiction cart are about to be released. Do I have to have a rest day?

[Hidden]

Yes you do. Did you read the Guide?

(shakes head in exasperated disbelief)

Well you don't, but you will probably regret it when you are sobbing on the bench. Do something else; work on core strength, go swimming, walk the dog, take up salsa...… JUST NO RUNNING

[DaiFit Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Thank you for the advice. I need a dog.

[Hidden in reply to DaiFit]

mrrun tells a very good cautionary tale about 'the man who knew too little, and did too much'. I think it's a pinned post.

He is now running vast distances without any trouble, but learned the hard way.... (I don't want to be sexist but this is such a man thing!)

[mrrun Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Hahaha, priceless! Not entirely sure as my stubbornness is engraved all over my mum's clan. But yes, l do tend to learn the hard way, and missing the rest days was at times bordering with idiocy. Three years later l can gallop three days on the trot without a blink though.

[Mummycav Administrator Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Here here Hidden x

[Mummycav Administrator Graduate]

Absolutely yes...give your muscles time to repair then theres less risk of injury...and you can prepare properly for the next run....you dont want to end up on the IC and have to start all over again do you?? Nicely does it...

Well done on your progress so far, you're doing brilliantly

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Congratulations on completing week 1 of C25K, the number one rule is not to run on consecutive days, otherwise you could end up on the IC (injury couch ), try and keep to the same 3 days a week, that way you will have 2 non running days, you can do other exercises on non running days.

[Hidden]

The secret to successful running is discipline. If you want to run fast then rest. It's all about recovery. The run breaks the muscle, the rest repairs it, makes it stronger. Trust the plan Padawan

[backintime Graduate]

what they all said - yes yes yes you do need rest days. If your muscle doesn't repair you won't get the strength you need

do swimming or cycling or elliptical bike thingy but no impact sports on rest days

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Yes..yes.. and yes... Check out the post for Newbies...

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Plus there is plenty to do on some of your rest days.. Yoga, swim, cycle... climb... walk.. strength and flex and cross train..

So, slow and steady and follow the plan Huge well done for starting this.. there is a way to go... so enjoy it