Week 3 run 3 - that first half was so tough

[Birdlady64]

Is it just me but those first 3 minutes were really tough today? My legs and feet felt like lead and I really struggled to keep going.

But come the last 3 minutes I was on a roll and managed to carry on running for another minute (and could have done more).

Is it normal to struggle so much in the first third/half?

My route is slightly uphill to start with and slightly downhill on the return but it feels like it's more than that.

Am kind of looking forward to week 4 but am also fearful of those interval runs

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Well done.

Heavy legs can be symptomatic of poor hydration. As a runner you need to drink 2.5 -3 litres of fluid each and every day, running or not, as mentioned in the guide. This is not optional.

This post explains the reason why the first half of your session is difficult healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and why it is not sensible topsh hard at the beginning.

[Birdlady64 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks!

As a swimmer, pretending to be a runner, my poor old legs aren't used to all this weight bearing exercise - but now I get it.

And I think you hit the hydration thing right on the head.

I went out first thing this morning after having a glass or two last night. All my previous runs have been early evening after making sure to drink enough water during the day.

[mollyox123]

i’m now on week 8 and i always find the first half really hard, at the moment that’s the first 14 mins of my 28 min run (which i never thought i’d be able to do!) but once i get over that half way mark it seems a lot easier! maybe try a podcast to distract yourself from the running?

[Birdlady64 Graduate in reply to mollyox123]

Thanks. Good to know it isn't just me.

I run through woodland and don't listen to music or anything other than Michael telling me when to run and walk. I Iove hearing the birdsong, which is music to my ears. But I might try a podcast, especially if (no when!) I get to the longer runs.

[Emcg51]

I am on week 6 now and the first five minutes of every run is still a huge challenge, but like you it’s slightly uphill for me. It is easier since I increased the speed of my warm up walk and slowed down my running 👍

[Birdlady64 Graduate in reply to Emcg51]

Thanks 👍

Maybe I will try increasing the speed of my warm-up walk although I am still walking faster than I run so slowing my run might not be an option 😂