Week Four. Run Three

[LittleIreland]

On Wednesday, I referred to this mornings early run as being at daft o'clock. It's just gone 3.30am, and I've now completed the final run of week 4.

Shift work unfortunately dictates when I can and can't run. I work twelve hour shifts, and a typical working day can see me put in around 10 miles of walking. I'm usually worn out at the end of the day, so running after work is a non starter. Besides, I'd be buzzing in the evening and have legs a twitching which wouldn't be very helpful when I have to rise early the following morning.

I live in a small village in West Cumbria, so tend to opt for running towards the nearest town. If I didn't head towards the town, I'd be running around in tedious circles and my Neighbours would think I'm well and truly crackers. Mind you... Maybe I am with this early start 🤔

Headtorch on, along with some necessary reflective gear, and away I went while listening to Blitzkrieg Bop by the Ramones.

The run went really well. I'd prefer to do it in daylight when there is something to look at, instead of concentrating on a glowing circle a few yards ahead. But, needs must.

At the end of this run, I felt that I could go further - and more importantly for me - my breathing was 90% better than it has been.

When I started this training plan, I could walk miles, upon miles. But run - not a chance. 50 yards and I'd be hauled off to the knackers yard.

So. That's now four weeks of the C25K plan complete. I'm not yet a runner. But, I'm well on my way to calling myself one - and that makes me smile with pride.

The next step is a big one with week five. It will culminate with a milestone 20 minutes of non-stop running. I'm looking forward to the challenge. I'm also looking forward to heading out at a more civilised hour ☺

[mayberunner Graduate]

I am getting ready for week 5 day 1 tomorrow. Sounds like we’re in it together! Way to go running so early in the am and congrats on completing week 4 (My week 4 had several practice runs, it was tough for me!)

Onwards and upwards... let’s conquer week 5!

[LittleIreland Graduate in reply to mayberunner]

I sat and thought about week 5 last night. I'm quite looking forward to it, but if I have a hiccup, I'm more than happy to repeat. I'm trying to be as positive as possible ☺

I look forward to hearing on your progress.

[Mands50 Graduate]

Good luck with W5 and well done with your dedication in getting up so early to run. I’m sure with your determination you’ll crack that 20 mins run with ease 👏👍

[LittleIreland Graduate in reply to Mands50]

I hope so ☺

Thanks 👍

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Dedication......

This breakdown of W5 may be helpful healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[LittleIreland Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks 👍

[Emmy6781]

I also do shift work so have to run at silly o'clock. It's not ideal but will get better in the summer months (I hope) keep up the good work.

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Wow, that's commitment! Good for you. 👊

[edwardkerrison]

I think you are amazing running at 3 am and walking ten miles a day. Absolutely fantastic.

[GoGo_JoJo Graduate]

Well done! Lucky you, Cumbria is one of my fave counties!

[LittleIreland Graduate in reply to GoGo_JoJo]

Many that live here take it for granted. I love the outdoors, so try to make the most of it ☺

[Mum22boys Graduate]

Love this, well done you. Just imagine those very early summer mornings as the sun comes up ☀️

[LittleIreland Graduate in reply to Mum22boys]

I can't wait ☺ ☀

[Hidden]

Wow, so admire your running in the dark, what a treat you have in store in the long days of Summer, you can so do this 😃

[turtle6]

Admire your dedication, well done. Good luck with week 5 👍🏻

[LittleIreland Graduate in reply to turtle6]

Thanks 😁

[Granspeed Graduate]

You’re a ⭐️ for determination. Well done. 👏🏼🎉👏🏼