How slow is too slow?

[MinkyT]

I am pretty happy with my progress so far (W8R1 just under my belt, a little blip in W7 and had to repeat the whole week but other than that consistent since the beginning of the year) but this morning it struck me that maybe my shuffling pace doesn’t count as proper running and I am in fact CHEATING. I do end every run red faced and sweaty but I don’t feel on the verge of collapse. So my question is this: how slow is too slow?

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Cheating how? Who makes the rules? If you are moving forward in a running motion (both feet off the ground), you're running - simple as that!

Carry on doing what you're doing and you should graduate without injury. 🤞Only then think about trying to speed up, and only then if you really want to.

#embracethesnail 🐌

[MinkyT in reply to Speedy60]

Wonderful advice - thank you so much. I am definitely proud of where I’ve got to so far, and I think that it feels so natural and good to run, I assume there must be a catch (like I’m not doing it right). Good to remember that apart from a few simple criteria (like ‘definitely not walking’ and ‘complete each run’) that there’s no right or wrong. Very inspiring! 🙏🌟💗

[Speedy60 Graduate in reply to MinkyT]

I'm so glad you're enjoying it. I've only been running since September and it's made a real difference to me, not just physically but mentally too. It's lovely to hear other people having the same experience.

Happy running. 👍

[mandy167]

This is the same problem I have I feel so slow only run if you call it that at 9.5kph

[Buddy34 Graduate in reply to mandy167]

You are not slow either, your pace will get you to the end of each run and that's what is asked of you. I think the problem is we start to compare yourself to others, I know I used to do it . Go out and run and enjoy 😊😊

[MinkyT in reply to Buddy34]

I do love it! Never thought I would, either. It’s been a revelation!

[PeteJog in reply to mandy167]

9.5 kph will take you 4.75 km in the final 30min run. Sound pretty spot on to me. Someone tell me that’s not slow 👂👂

[Buddy34 Graduate]

You're definitely not cheating , you're running and completing each run. Be proud of yourself and of what you are achieving and no you shouldn't be on the verge of collapse. Good luck and keep going 😊😊😊

[MinkyT in reply to Buddy34]

Thank you for the validation. Much appreciated!

[Buddy34 Graduate in reply to MinkyT]

This is why I love this forum. 😊

[Hidden]

Everyone has their own pace but if the pace you're at feels comfy stick with it 👍👍

[MinkyT in reply to Hidden]

Thank you! Before all this lovely advice, I would have thought it was a little TOO comfy but now I’m just going to enjoy it, complete the programme and think about pace later. Maybe much later! 😄

[Beachcomber66 Graduate]

The only problem on C25k is going too fast! If you want to pick up pace after week 9 run 3, maybe fit in one shorter quicker run each week? But take things at your own pace. You do your thing 👍

[MinkyT in reply to Beachcomber66]

Great advice! I’ll be focusing on completion, not speed. I suppose there’s plenty of time for that later!

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

There is no too slow and one day you may realise your very slow is a bit faster but it takes time

[MinkyT in reply to SueAppleRun]

Thank you! You are all so wonderful and I am already feeling very reassured 💗

[SueAppleRun Graduate in reply to MinkyT]

This is the best forum for answers, support and encouragement

[Roxdog Graduate]

You are doing everything absolutely perfectly! No worries at all - your slow pace is perfect for you. Everyone will or has echoed this I'm sure. Brilliant!

[sTrongFuse Graduate]

So long as you're moving, you aren't going too slow.

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

How slow is too slow?

Being ON THE COUCH.

[jsh2803 Graduate]

No such thing as too slow .... 9.5kph is way faster than I am, 4 park runs in post graduation and just under 40 mins