W5R2 completed - the psychological wall

[layzellm]

So, completed the 2 x 8 minute runs today... again, slightly slower than previous runs, but ok. Laura was telling me this week that the difficulties are now becoming psychological, and boy I noticed it today. Halfway through the first 8 min run I was telling myself that my calves would not last on a longer run, and I could probably repeat this one a few times to further build up my strength... before starting the 2nd 8 min run, I was thinking of walking part of it, as I was trying to convince myself that I wasn't ready for a longer run, and that I could barely complete this length... during the last bit of the 8 minutes, I was telling myself that this was the hardest it had been on my lungs, and I didn't want to push it and get ill... The fear of the next run almost ruined this one.

20 minutes is intimidating - but in the cold light of day, and referring to a brilliant spreadsheet someone posted, I have looked and realized that I am actually only going to be running the 'middle walks' from today & Saturday.. and my running is not a huge increase in speed over my brisk walk... Logic is overcoming the fear.. (Until Wednesday at least)

[Pangolin]

Well done for getting to W5R2. I was also a bit worried about the step up to 20 mins for W5R2 but managed it last week. Just pace yourself so you don’t get too tired early on; and go with a friend for encouragement if you can.

[Hymertrails Graduate]

Hi layzellm I just completed my w5 on Saturday. I too was very apprehensive of the 20min but in all honesty it was fine. Definitely a mental challenge as through the programme you will have progressed to this point with all the previous efforts. Just stay focused, slow and steady and get prepped for the euphoric feeling of completing. I’m still overjoyed, if still a little sore but all set for my W6R1 tonight. It’s back to intervals but to be honest I’m glad as another 20+ for me today would be a challenge.

Good luck on your 20 I’m sure you’ll be fine!!!

[Thisoneistrying Graduate]

Well done for completing your run. You are definitely not alone feeling like this at this point. I remember almost crying at the beginning of WK6 but you can do it and you will. Take heart and keep going. You've come this far x

[Grannyhugs Graduate]

Trust the plan 100%. If your lungs hurt you are probably going way to fast. You should be able to talk. No slow is too slow, honest. When I moved from c25k onto the 10k plan I slowed down by about 40% just to manage the increased distances knowing I would be able to increase speed in the weeks to come when used to the longer distances. Yes, I felt I could have walked faster but those slow speeds are now behind me as my body got used to longer runs. Happy running

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Agree with grannytobe (are you actually a granny yet, by the way?). However slowly you're running now, you can run slower. You can do this! Good luck 👍

[Wenderwoo Graduate]

Well done, and you will smash R3 I’m sure. Just take it slowly 😁

[Roxdog Graduate]

It does feel like a big step but if you've managed the other runs, however hard they felt, you will be able to do it!

My tip, for what it's worth, is to not think about the time at all and just run slowly at a pace which doesn't make you out of breath. Breathe evenly and relax into the run. Bet you will surprise yourself! Good luck!