Just started week 5

[geedubolyou]

My knees are killing me. I'm super excited with the progress I've made so far but the big 20 min run is incredibly daunting and with my knees in some pain I'm a little intimidated. Any good stretches/exercises for protecting the knee and knee strength?

[TortoiseRegretsHare Graduate]

I’ve been doing the NHS knee exercises for runners, plus making sure I do a cool down at the end of a run. My knees can be dodgy and I’ve sometimes left a run for a bit longer, & done strengthening exercises instead for a bit. I’m nervous about the idea of running through pain - I figure it’s my body saying something isn’t quite right. Good luck though - when you do come to do the 20 minutes run I’ll bet you surprise yourself.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes advice on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

In respect of W5 this post may be useful too healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.