Week 7 run 1

[KJB1988]

I'm immensely proud of myself. I had some level of fitness previously as I used to go to the gym 3/4 times a week mainly doing weight training and resistance, but I've never been much of a runner. I started this program to help build stamina and keep fit during lockdown while the gyms are closed. After a rocky start of shin splints, knee pain, lack of stamina I completed week 7 run 1 yesterday and carried on after to get to the 5k which I completed in 36mins, a whole 4mins quicker than when I did the same on week 6 run 3. I couldn't run for 5mins straight without having to stop 7 weeks ago and now I'm running 5k non stop! My aim is now to complete the programme and keep knocking the time off so I can complete 5k in under the 30 mins.

[Issywhizz Graduate]

Amazing. Well done! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Well done on your achievement but I would be failing in my role as mentor on this forum if I did not point out that by exceeding the demand of the plan you are increasing your injury risk.

You are falling into a classic pattern of behaviour that I have seen many times, especially from people who have a reasonable degree of fitness, who believe they can push on at their own pace with impunity. As a new runner you really do need to be careful and restrain your enthusiasm, or you could end up injured and not running at all, to days, weeks or even months.

I have a folder of "horror stories" from some of those would be invulnerables who followed your route and lived to regret it, which I can send to you, if you wish. Injury is not inevitable, but you are fitting the profile.

You are not following C25k and I will ask you not to continue to post your excesses, as it may encourage others to follow suit.

What is the hurry?

[KJB1988 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

When I say I had a reasonable level of fitness I mean I'm a 5ft 3 9.5stone power lifter who is used to putting my body under a lot more strain than the average person. I'm not completely new to running or any sort of fitness I know my bodies limits and when I can push it and when I can't. The cardio training I've done before was relatively low impact on xtrainers and treadmills which is why I wanted to start from the beginning and do the couch to 5k. At the start I suffered horrible shin splints and knee pains but I forked out on a decent pair of running trainers and some impact cushioning insoles and adapted my running style to suit the surfaces I'm running on to reduce injury risk. I know how to stretch before and after runs and recover my muscles. I am no stranger to all of these things. This program has helped me to get to a level where I can actually run and feel good about it and enjoy it which is something that I never thought I'd say. I may have achieved it a little quicker than the 9 weeks. Isn't this program based on pushing yourself a little bit more each and every week? I haven't recommend anyone follow suit and do what I have done have I? Everyone is different and will get there at their own pace.