Wk5R2

[Clawdia]

I had an enforced week off over Christmas with a horrible gastric flu type virus. But I managed to go for a run on Boxing Day and yesterday completed run 2 of week 5. Since getting my new trainers I have no knee or hip pain, so that’s a joy. My only problem is I’m so slow. I want to up my pace but I’m scared of running out of puff and the will to carry on if I take speed over duration. Any tips?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Well done.

You are so slow compared to who?

You are a damned sight faster than you were before you started the programme.

As stated in the guide to the plan, healthunlocked.com/couchto5... C25k is designed to be run at an easy conversational pace........it is about duration, not speed.

We would recommend that you carry on as you are until you graduate and are stronger, then you can think about increasing pace, but even then it is best to spend 75-80% of your running time at an easy conversational pace, to build stamina.

[Clawdia Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I always run on my own, so perhaps I ought to start talking to myself to make sure I’m capable of conversation! 😀.

Good advice though. Thank you.

[Grannyhugs Graduate]

Keep it slow. Ignore speed this isn't a race. Far better to complete each run with puff in the tank than to be dreadithe next run. Assuming you want to continue after w9 you have the rest of your life to decide what speed you think of as important. My speed varies considerably depending on terrain, distance a mood, they are all good runs. Happy running

[Clawdia Graduate in reply to Grannyhugs]

I try not to worry about it. I just know that I’d like to do 5k but I’m nowhere near doing it at the mo. I just need to be patient with my progress and think how far I’ve come so far in 5 short weeks!

[Grannyhugs Graduate in reply to Clawdia]

Only about 10% of people graduate 5k in 30mins some never reach that pace and are perfectly happy. Your aim is just to run 30min. Happy running