Consolidation runs and fitness levels

[Vgabb]

Been managing 3 x 30-35 minute runs for the last couple of weeks and feeling stronger. Slow, but steady pace - managing 4k in just over 30 mins and working my way up to 5k.

I bought myself a Garmin to better track distances and pace myself, and it's been good motivation to keep running and keep active on my rest days.

However, since starting consolidation runs my stats seem to have gone down (VO2 max is down, my runs are coming up as "unproductive") and my weight has gone up a few kilos despite staying careful with my diet and being more active than I've been in a long time. It's really frustrating ☹️ maybe I'm just plateauing but having the data suggest I'm losing fitness is rubbish!

Should I just keep going with my plan to do a minimum of 3 x 30 min runs a week, or should I alter my plan or diet further? I hate traditional diets and just try to eat healthy and in moderation. Any advice appreciated!