Does it ever get easier?

[Maria527]

I'm finishing up Week 7. I feel like every run is a struggle! Does it ever get easier and more enjoyable? My 5K is in 2 weeks and I want it to be fun, not a struggle.

[K8nno Graduate]

Yes and errrrmmmmm no. You’ll start to find that you’re building up distance and or speed. Trouble is, you tend to keep pushing yourself so it’s just as hard. Then you’ll have days when you’re not interested in pace or distance, just go for a run, and these tend to be the most fun. Enjoy the journey in the knowledge that you’re doing something that most other people can’t do.

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate]

You're into real running territory now, and of course like kenno says, you're pushing yourself further each time. If you're finding it too much, slow down, if only for a little while. But the end is in sight now, and soon you'll be running for 30 minutes (not necessarily 5k) and then you can consolidate and it should be easier.

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Usually if you are struggling, you're going to fast . You may think you're going slow but if you really try hard you can find a slower pace. Well done you 😊

[Maria527]

All true. I do think I've been too focused on increasing speed. It will come in its own due course.

[sTrongFuse Graduate]

I'll echo everyone else. For me it was about finding my "happy" pace. I'm not racing any one, I'm just out, taking in what's around me as I lollop gracelessly through the countryside. I leave speed for those short sprints I need to keep up with play on the rugby field. At all other times, I just settle into a pace that let me keep putting one foot in front of the other and cover whatever distance I cover in whatever time it takes.