W4R1

[Farmwifey]

This is my first time posting.First run of week 4 today. Really struggling. The run I do is across fields and along a rocky coast with a few steep hills but scenery is lovely. Do you think I should stick to road and double back on myself ?

[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 pacing..........if you struggle, just slow down.

Running hills is hard work but will make you stronger. If you can manage them then carry on (looks lovely) but if they are too tough then the road may be your best option.

Enjoy your journey.

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate]

Well that is beautiful! But if you're struggling, maybe stick to easier ground while you're building up and save the rocky terrain and hills for when you've got more distance under your belt? Or one run out of three so you don't miss that scenery entirely. And if you're still struggling, slow down 😊

[Farmwifey]

Thank you so much for advice. I think I will try both slowing down and one day coast two days on the road 😀

[Elfe5 Graduate]

What a beautiful place to run - it reminds me of the Northumberland coastline. I’m having running route envy! 😄

It sounds like slowing down would be helpful wherever you choose to run. Have you seen videos on YouTube about Japanese slow running? Many of us have found those very helpful to get the idea of how slow “slow” can be, especially for these early weeks.

As for where to run - It sounds like you have a choice and can choose where you would prefer to go run by run - wherever you go, it sounds like you need to slow down even more. 😄

[Farmwifey in reply to Elfe5]

Yes you are right, it’s Northumberland coast. I am definitely going to take a look at Japanese sole running today. Thank you 😊

[Trying9 Graduate]

Hi Farmwifey. I am on W4R1 too...(literally having my post run glass of water and apple) so I am no expert. I began W1and W2 running on and around a rugby field to avoid hills. Even longer, slightly uneven grass made it harder. I have now moved location; warm up by walking 10mins uphill to allow me to run mainly on the flat. Hills are just too hard for me (is that cheating?) I also have now picked a well cut grass route as narrow uneven pathways put more strain on my ankles and legs.

From W3, thanks to comments on this forum, I have really been stretching after a run and have upped my water drinking every day. That really seemed to help me.

I think you need to be kind to yourself with regards the route as you build up strength and stamina.

[Farmwifey in reply to Trying9]

I think that’s a really good point about water as I don’t drink anywhere near as much as I should. Well done on getting this far it’s so difficult isn’t it 😊

[Emcg51]

That looks a beautiful place to run, we have family in Alnwick! But do you run alone? I’d worry about you twisting your ankle on an uneven surface and taking a tumble. But still, I probably couldn’t resist it either 😄