Moving to 5 days a week

[Pixieprizzle]

I’m one run off graduating having done the programme remotely by phone with my sister to keep us going. I’d like to then run 5 times a week Monday to Friday with weekends off. Has anyone else done this? I don’t want to injure myself having taken in the advice through the programme to have a day off in between runs. TIA x

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Congratulations on almost completing C25K, I wish you all the best for your graduation run BUT do NOT start running 5 days a week after you graduate because that could lead to a injury, it is recommended that no runner should run on consecutive days, let alone five days in a row until at least 6 months after they graduate, the maximum you should run is 4 days a week on alternative days, once you graduate, run several 30 minute consolidation runs then try the Stepping stones podcasts with Laura before going onto the Bridge 210K podcasts or Ju Ju's Magic 10 plan if you want to run a 10K, once again I don't think that you should run 5 days a week until six months after you graduate from C25K, good luck for your graduation run.

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate in reply to AlMorr]

What Al says! Far too early days to run every day. Your muscles need non run days to repair and strengthen. Other forms of exercise would be better at this stage, if you feel you should do something every day. Stretching or strengthening exercises for instance?

[Hidden]

I agree - would definitely definitely stick to running on alternate days at the most. I was so tempted to start running everyday when I finished but every runner I know told me not to! So I run 3x week and do low impact training (hiking/cycling/weights) on the other days. Congratulations on almost graduating 😃

[RB-I Graduate]

Just to add, I find a real difference in my runs if I haven't left enough rest. I graduated about 4 months ago and don't run on consecutive days, but sometimes if I have been tired or whatever and give myself 2-3 days break the next run is a lot better. It's more encouraging that way!

[Pixieprizzle Graduate]

Thanks guys will look at alternatives instead. I love the lift the run gives me and how much happier I feel after so will try something different (I would swim but obviously can’t do that right now).