Week 1 - disappointment

[Darty81]

Hi,

I feel disappointed. I though i would at least be able to do week 1, i cant even do the 60 second run. I have been repeating w1 run 3 for the past couple of weeks as i don't feel i can move on until i have completed it properly. Each time i go out the first 60 second run is fine but then i have real pains in my calfs. i try with the next runs but cut them short and carry on walking my way round. Did any one else struggle and have any advice for me please.

I'm quite positive and i do enjoy just being out and attempting it as i have done very little exercise since school. I'm just not sure what i am doing wrong.

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Hi, are you doing the pre run warm up excercises that are recommended here on the site ?

Also , are you running too fast ?

It really does need to be a very gentle jog where you could comfortably hold a conversation at the same time ?

[Dusty500]

Hi - I tried some yoga on you tube good for stretching there’s a 20 min one by Adrienne that stretches whole body but you could just do legs ?

[HelenofTroy123 Graduate]

Definitely go slower! I went way too fast and found the first week harder than any other!

[Elleay]

Keep going! Listen to your body, but don’t give up! I’m on W6R3 and felt just like you. It’s worth it!

[JessPix Graduate]

I just wanted to reassure you that I felt just like you. I really couldn't see how I could get past week 2 as my shins used to hurt so much and I was so out of breath. I am new here and have just been reading lots of the advice on here. I've just watched the recommenced YouTube video on Japanese slow running and I think without realising it, I've been running like this which has helped me get to the end of week 6. It may be worth you having a look as you could be running too fast? I have been berating myself for being so slow but after watching this video I feel a lot more positive about my running. Keep going. And maybe just start week 2. Psychologically it might give you a boost and you'll be surprised what you can achieve. I don't say this lightly. I am 50, overweight and very unfit and have never ran before. So I don't minimise for one moment what you are feeling like. Good luck, you can do it!

[Maisie1958]

Hi, have just completed C25K program and found the earlier runs the hardest. Suffered with tight calves especially. It helped me taking 2 or 3 rest days between those runs and really upping my stretches. Also slowed down-didn’t think I could go any slower! Maybe just move onto week two as JessPix suggests? It would give your mood a boost? Though shouldn’t run if pain is getting worse. I thought I’d have to stop at week 3 but then things just seemed to improve, I think just going slower was the main thing that helped me. I’m the wrong side of 60 and not exactly slender so I’m sure you can do it . All good wishes.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

You are doing the right thing in not moving on until you have completed each session.

Are you following the advice in the guide to the plan on pacing?

Can you speak aloud, clear, ungasping sentences as you run?.........if not, you are going too fast.

Are you following the advice in the guide to the plan on minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help?