Struggling again

[Scruff55]

Not been on here for a while. Been running 3x a week. Just doing 20 mins running. I’ve got a steady pace and think I’m well hydrated but the runs aren’t getting any easier. I’ve been running Monday Wednesday and Friday to try to form a habit but still finding it hard going most runs. Helpful suggestions gratefully received.

[Hidden]

I wonder if you have read the guide to post graduate running? Lots of fabulous advice there.

I suggest that you develop a plan. Do you want to go further? Faster? Maybe set some goals.

Also mix it up a bit, maybe have a longer run, a shorter faster run and one intervals run. Try listening to a podcast, or audio book to take your mind off things, or run without any tech and enjoy the world around you. Have you seen the 'stepping stones' runs?

Although not possible at the moment, many swear by park run or you could join a club. I found coming on the forum (or moving on to Bridge to 10k) provided me with motivation, when I was flagging.

Good luck!

[Scruff55 Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for this. I think I was maybe trying too hard and pushing myself to go faster and further. I will try to be kinder to myself o. Friday and see how it goes.

[Fionamags Graduate]

There is another post today in a similar vein - it seems to be common to the post-grad experience! I certainly felt like that too. Like Helen says, there are the C25K+ podcasts that are worth a go for cadence and interval training.

But do check out May's consolidation club. Also, Rigpig wrote a really good post on here that is worth checking out. He replied to the other person like you so take a look at what he says.

[Scruff55 Graduate in reply to Fionamags]

I graduated in October last year but had done C25K on an indoor treadmill so gradually moved outside over the winter. I’ve only managed to do a couple of 30 minutes running outside as I have been getting Achilles tendinitis a lot even tough I do stretches and warm ups I seem to manage 20 minutes of running ok but can’t seem to get past that level. I’ll try again on Friday. Hopefully I have been. Building up my stamina and I’ll succeed. Thanks for your support.

[Fionamags Graduate in reply to Scruff55]

Oh that's a shame - must be really frustrating for you. If its any consolation there are quite a few folk who graduated ages ago and actually restarted the program after injury. I think our very own IannodaTruffe is in that position - so you are in excellent company 😉.

Take care and don't push too hard too soon.

[Scruff55 Graduate in reply to Fionamags]

Thanks