W5R2C25K done... but only just!

[Roadrunner65]

I always find the first few minutes of a run rather hard, but after a few minutes or so, I settle in to it, get a rhythm going, I have found 'my pace'. Listening to my tunes, knowing they're about 3-4 minutes long, so when I've heard a whole tune I know the run is almost done. This time, as the second tune started, I realised that I'm not going to hear Michael say, 'Well done, slow down and recover with a brisk walk until your next run, you're doing great!' This time there was no slowing for my well earned brisk 3 minute recovery walk. Panic! But, I say to myself, you can do this, just slow the pace, take your time, breath deep, keep running, just keep running, don't stop!

Stop! go on, you know you want to, you're getting on now, done your bit, deserve to relax, take it easy, put your feet up, leave running to kids and athletes, go on, stop, give it up! Those mind demons were hard at it too!

Michael J has it spot on (as usual) when he warns, this run is more of a mental challenge, and boy oh boy! I felt it, mentally and physically too. I have to admit, this one I struggled with, but I pushed through, I never stopped and when MJ said, ok just 60 seconds left, a little extra energy and determination kicked-in, saw me clear through to the end.

The sense of achievement, for this run especially, for me, was one of my best so far. I'm sure you will have your special runs/achievements too, the one where you faced up to and took on a particularly tough mental and/or physical challenge. I know what you've been through, or are about to face and you have my admiration and support.

Keep calm and carry-on!

[Sadie-runs Graduate]

Brilliant! (And I remember this run very, very well.) Such an interesting journey, running. I think at first we all focus on our bodies, and if they can cope with this new exertion and if our lungs/legs can manage it. And then, the mind comes in to play! You tested your mental resilience today, and you passed the test! 👏👏👏 Well done, runner!

[Roadrunner65 Graduate in reply to Sadie-runs]

Thank you Sadie-runs . I have to admit, that as I am a tad overweight (part why I am doing this), my legs felt very heavy towards the end. Thanks so much for the encouragement. This forum is really playing it's part too in my journey.

[Sadie-runs Graduate in reply to Roadrunner65]

Heavy legs are normal, whatever your weight. I am slim, and my legs felt like lead on some runs of C25K! And gawd, the aching the next day! 😱 But stick with it, it truly does get better and better when you stick to a consistent running plan. 👍 I love this forum. Would not have gotten as far as I have with my running without it, I am sure. Happy running to you. Keep us posted on your progress. 😁

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

A very inspiring post from you BWhelan65, a great sense of achievement and one of the best so far for you, now if you thought that running run TWO of week 5 was a great achievement, just what will you think of yourself once you have completed your next run, run 3 of week 5, that is a milestone run with C25K, good luck for that, if you have not looked ahead, don't, wait until you get your instructions from your coach which I believe is Michael Johnson. 😊 🏃🏾

[Roadrunner65 Graduate in reply to AlMorr]

Thank you AlMorr . My legs felt very heavy towards the end and am looking forward to the next challenge - I won't peak (as you advise) as those demons will start their work early otherwise. Thanks so much for the encouragement, it means a lot

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate in reply to Roadrunner65]

👍

[Wenderwoo Graduate]

You mentioned it being extra tough at the start.....have you heard of the toxic ten? Here’s some info:

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Roadrunner65 Graduate in reply to Wenderwoo]

That just about sums it up and explains it perfectly, thank you Wenderwoo