I’ve never run 5k in my life!

[LVLady]

I am on with doing the Couch to 5k, today I have done Week 4 Run 1 and I struggled, having to stop for breath during the last run. Should I complete the run again before moving to Run 2? I feel v disappointed as I had completed the other runs even though I didn’t find them easy.

[Charfar Graduate]

Don’t be disappointed think how far u have got! I’m only on week 2 run 1 is tomorrow, sometimes I wonder if I am a runner but I have kept going!

[Greenwich8]

No no! Not the time to give up! Give it another go to consolidate. I also struggle a lot with breathing so to focus the mind in the last stretches I tell myself “only jog up to that pole”... “ok now only to that next bend then you can give up”... “well that wasn’t so bad so let’s get to the next gate and then I’ll allow you to give up”... before you know it it’s “seriously you’re gona give up now when Laura said you only have 60 seconds left?!”

[Hidden]

Well done on getting to week 4. The runs do start lengthening out now, so take your speed right down and stay at a conversational pace - if you can’t do that, then you are running too fast. Slowing down should help you solve your breathing problems and help you complete each run section before moving on to run 2. Embrace your inner-snail 😊 🐌.

[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.

We recommend that you fully complete each session before moving on.

Every run makes you stronger.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hidden]

Personally, I’d run R2 much slower and I think you’ll be ok. If it makes you feel better, I’ve just run R2 and it was easier than R1. Good luck!👍

[Hidden]

I did wk4r1 again after taking an extra rest day. The first attempt was a disaster. The second was like a different person running it. If you want to do it again, then do so! You're still running, building your strength and stamina. I totally agree with the comments about slowing down to help your breathing. Onwards and upwards, you've got this 👍

[Reggit Graduate]

I struggled with 4.1 on Saturday, was very hot. Did 4.2 early yesterday morning when it was still cool, felt much better and just for a short while thing seemed to start falling into place on the last 5 minute section, and for the 1st time I could sing along to the music I had on - wouldn’t dare try that again if there was people around 😂.

4.2 is the same as 4.1 so just try it, weather is cooling now so that will probably help as well.

Enjoyed it is the wrong word, however I found myself wishing o could go out again yesterday evening.

Keep at it, it will click into place and just think after your next run you’re halfway through the 9 weeks!

[LittleMia Graduate]

I would say don't repeat just yet. I struggled after run 1 of wk 4 but I found run 2 slightly better and that was on a boiling hot day. Hopefully with it being cooler it may help for your next one. I have run 3 of wk4 today and am not sure which way it is going to go but will give it a try.

You can do it!

[Scundered Graduate]

That's just a blip, tiny and inconsequential when set beside what you've already achieved which is great. We need to keep looking at our positive accomplishments and not unduly emphasise anything negative. Keep on. Peter.

[Tesserau5]

Finished week 9 run 3 after about 10 weeks’ keeping to the C25K programme. Absolutely amazing. I’m a 5k runner now. Can’t believe my progress. From not being able to run 100 yards only a short time ago to 5k today. What a programme this is! I’m going to recommend it to everyone I know who wants to get fit. That’s the secret word though “wants” . If you want it, C25K will show you how and what you have to do. Easy. Simple. You just have to get out of the door. That’s the beginning of your new fit you.

I’m 64, heart condition, wasn’t fit by any description of the word, and now I’m going to continue running and maintain this new found love of running while getting fitter by the run. I heard this so much at the start of the programme from others who had “graduated” and was sceptical but it’s true: if I can do it ANYONE can .

Yippeeee ...

[Charfar Graduate]

Don’t give up! Keep going or better still read lol these posts I find them a great help

[Watermint Graduate]

Keep going - well done for getting this far.

[LVLady]

Managed to finish run 2 😄 run 3 on Sunday, thank you for the comments of encouragement x

[Charfar Graduate]

Yay well done for keeping at it xx