Finding it hard, need help

[happytanya2]

Hi. I just did my week 1 run 3 and it seems to have been harder not easier. I live in a hilly are and one of the 60s runs lands on a steep hill. The first time I managed it just, the second I stopped 5s early and today it was 20s early but I did add the 20 onto the next run, but then stopped 20 early on the 2nd to last run so was still 20s out. How am I going to do the next week if I haven't managed to achieve the first one entirely?

Any help would be appreciated.

[Mellanv]

I'm petty new here too so may be talking rubbish but have you thought of driving somewhere less hilly? I go out from home twice and from work once each week. Work is really hilly so made the decision to drive somewhere flat so i don't get disheartened. Might be worth a thought?

[happytanya2 in reply to Mellanv]

Thanks 😀 That may work on a weekend run. I work long hours so getting straight out due to daylight is a necessity but if I did a flatter run on the weekend and didn't find it as hard it may give me a boost that I am actually doing well 😁

[differs]

hi I have the same problem living in west yorkshire; ive found that slowing right down helps on the steep bits, and also varying the route each time so i hit upward slopes at different points in the run? seems to be working as im starting week 6 tomorrow! Keep up the good work 😉

[Siolag]

I would slow down on the hilly section, and try and run with the same effort as if it was flat. That might be hard to gauge at first but it’ll become more natural after time.

[Vegout25 Graduate]

Hi happytanya2, suggest you pick a noticeable tree, bush fence a manageable distance up the hill as your goal. Reach that each time & then walk. Do that 3 times & then on the 4th time pick another target 3m further up. Repeat until eventually you’ll be running up the hill. Happy running 👍😊

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Just try running slower. You may think you are slow just now but going even slower can help . I would say to repeat wk1 and don't move in to wk2 until you have fully completed each run without stopping. Good luck 😊

[Annieapple Administrator Graduate in reply to Buddy34]

Buddy is right! I would echo this. Welcome to this forum. 👋

[steviej99 Graduate]

Hills are tough even for experienced runners, the increased workload is huge. Go as slow as you can, take smaller steps, use your arms, head and chest high. Good luck and enjoy your running

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

You do need to fully complete each day's workout before moving on, otherwise you will struggle. Just slow down to a gentle jog

You can do this............ slowly.

Enjoy your journey.