About to start week 7- wanting to just skip rest days

[wooface]

Hey, first time posting here but I have lurked for a while.

I have previously completed the programme a few years ago but am doing it whole heartedly this time and actually really enjoying it (Funny what lockdown does for changing your outlook on exercise and getting out!)

I did Week 6 Run 3 yesterday, hated but loved it at the same time. I want to run again today mainly to just get out of my head which I'm finding that running is really helping with but I also have read a lot about the importance of rest days for repairing tears in muscles.

Does anyone else get this feeling of just wanting to do it every day? What should I be doing instead? I kind of hate all other exercises

[limberlou Graduate]

Maybe try something like an online Pilates class?? That will help with your core strength and also flexibility and stretching

It’s helped me so much and to come back stronger from injuries

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Resist! Wouldn't it be awful if you pulled a hamstring or something and couldn't run for a fortnight. 😱

But yes, I have thought of running every day. Not so much before lockdown when there were plenty of other things to do, but definitely now!

[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.

When you run, the impact creates microtears in your muscles, which repair and strengthen on your rest days, not while running. Without rest, repair and strengthening are compromised and injury risk increased.

If you want to be the best runner that you can be, then do non impact cross training on your rest days, which will be far more beneficial than running every day. It is not recommended for new runners to run on consecutive days until they have a minimum of six months regular running on their legs.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hidden]

You are craving endorphins I think...I hear what you say about not liking other exercise, but what about a bike ride, a walk or a Joe Wicks class. Eventually you can run every day if that's what you want, but you need to put the work in first

[wooface Graduate]

Thanks everyone! I have taken your advice and am taking the rest days! Its such an addictive thing though, damn endorphins!!