Week 1 run 1 mark 2

[Precentrix]

So even though I've graduated and run more or less regularly since, I missed the programme. What to do?

My 5km is still around 40 to 42min. One of my aims is to get that to an average 35min - not particularly impressive. Best way to increase speed is intervals, right? Oh look... C25K has convenient intervals. #win

So... yesterday I jogged a convenient 4km, which is probably my 30min.

But today, I ran Week 1 run 1, but with the running segments at task pace, achieved by increasing stride length.

Those two plus a longer jog should have me sorted, and give me a nice structure to follow as I try to increase my fitness before next year's mountain segment of the Camino de Santiago. When the weather's better I'll also start short hiking with the rucksack on the cliff paths, but meh wind and rain.

[Grannyhugs Graduate]

Great idea and I wish you all the best. Bit you know, you do have a decent 5k time, remember we love all 5k times on this forum 😀 should be wonderfully fit for your fantastic trip next year. Happy running

[Precentrix Graduate in reply to Grannyhugs]

The fact that I *have* a time for jogging 5km is something I never thought I'd achieve!

I just need something to aim for otherwise I'll stop. And 35min ought to be doable whereas 30min seems impossible

[Grannyhugs Graduate in reply to Precentrix]

I stopped before reaching 30mins too, it's great to have the confidence to set our own limits rather than aim for a random time. I love what you are doing. May move onto that in the new year. Pushing myself to 10k just now but with winter here I'm doubting my reasoning.

[Precentrix Graduate]

Also, some people have warned me about increasing stride length. To me it seems more natural than increasing the number of steps past about 158bpm and I'm only doing it on the interval run. My feet won't hit the ground any faster, and when they do it just means I take smaller steps. For those who may be worried, I'm only doing this for the intervals at the moment, which today meant the grand total of the 8min of running from week 1. I'm assuming this is less of a change for my body than actually trying to run in the first place was, especially as in only doing it once a week, and I promise to do it gradually and stop if it causes any problems.