W1 R3

[CatV22]

Hello runners....

I’ve just completed the third run. After reading a few posts on here I think I’ve been running the run bits too fast - there’s no way I could hold a conversation whist I was doing it. I’m not sure I can run that slow efficiently though 😳 Running has never been my sport. I played football as a youth, I’m a start, stop sprinter by nature. More recently I joined CrossFit but haven’t been for a while. Running is definitely a weak area so I wanted to take the opportunity to work on it & attempt to gain some fitness.

My question is should I repeat week 1 and try to run slower or continue into week 2? My breathing recovers quickly in the walking phase but I’m definitely not getting my breathing whilst running right.

Thanks for any help & tips!

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Just practice the wonderful relaxed pace of running..there is a way to go yet and you want to get to those 30 minute runs safely, injury and having had fun.

Looks like you have a pleasant location to run in, so chill out, and let the new legs find their happy pace whilst you take in all the scenery around you!

Well done you!

[JtGo Graduate]

I started on Monday and was so out of breath by the end of the last 2 runs didn't even complete the full 60 secs on one go. Hoping tonight will be better. Maybe I was expecting too much the first time! Good luck 🤞

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

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.

If you completed each session fully, then move on.

Enjoy your journey.

[Kathleen73]

Hi. I just kept running each stage several times until I ‘felt’ I was ready to move on .. good luck.

[shsoga Graduate]

My advice would be to push on into week 2 - assuming that you did actually complete all three runs in week 1. If you did, the program will make you ready and, while it won’t FEEL any easier, that’s because you’re doing more each week. It doesn’t really feel any harder either, because you’re ready for it.

If you didn’t quite complete any of the runs, that is the only time that I would repeat them. I repeated every run in week two because I didn’t quite make it till the end of every section the first time round. But after that, even if I struggled, if I completed them, then I moved on.

Obviously your choice though, you should do what feels right for you. Have fun!