Third attempt

[Autocutie]

I’m in wk 4 of c25k and it’s usually round about here that I give up! Determined to complete all 9 weeks this time. Wanted to hear other people’s experiences as I think wk 5 is a big step up. Any tips anyone??

[JeanneMary Graduate]

Hi. I just kept on going with Laura in my earphones and doing what she told me, without really thinking about what was coming up next, and it worked for me! I actually tried to avoid finding out what she was going to ask me to do next in case I chickened out! 🤣 Just take the pace really slow and I'm sure the plan will work for you too. Good luck!

[Autocutie Graduate in reply to JeanneMary]

That’s really good advice, thanks! I do look ahead and it is like looking up a mountain and thinking I’ll never be able to climb that 😂

[Wilko2010]

You can do this. Trust the program and don't try to run too fast. When you get too tired slow down a bit but don't stop. Challenge yourself too - don't give up and believe in yourself.

[Autocutie Graduate in reply to Wilko2010]

Thank you 😊 I think I did try too hard before.

[MontyMooDog Graduate]

Week 5 is 90% in your head. Trust in the program and don't run too fast and you will be fine. You can do this but only if you keep your legs turning over so take your time and keep going.... 😏👍💪

[Autocutie Graduate in reply to MontyMooDog]

Thank you 😊 I am definitely more determined to keep going this time round 😁

[Dtay1978 Graduate]

Do you give up because you find it a struggle or because you think you’re incapable? If it’s the pace, just remember it should be a light jog, have a look at Japanese slow jogging on YouTube it’ll help.

If it’s a mental thing, then it might help to know that so many of us felt like you do at that stage. If you push yourself though I promise you it’ll be so worth it.

Happy running 😊

[Autocutie Graduate in reply to Dtay1978]

Thanks for the slow jogging tip- it’s great and slowed me down so I go further. Boasted my confidence about completing too 😁

[Autocutie Graduate]

I think it’s a bit of both so it really helps to know others feel the same way!

I will definitely have a look at Japanese slow jogging... sounds interesting 🤔 thanks 😊

[SweatyHettie Graduate]

The rookie error we all make until someone on here puts us straight is going too fast. If you’re out of breath you’re going too fast! Find your comfortable pace.

I agree with Dtay. We all look at W5R3 and think 🤷🏼‍♀️ but trust the programme- it works and most of the battle is in your head!

Make sure you also read the pinned post with the guide which also tells you everything you need to know about hydration rest stretches etc

Good luck and keep us posted!

[Autocutie Graduate in reply to SweatyHettie]

Thank you - it’s good to hear other people feared wk5 and did it! Feel ready for it now 😁😁

[NetballKitty Graduate]

Your body is learning to run, but so much of this is actually in your head. It really is mind over matter. Week 5 is scary, but all runs in week 5 are actually less distance than you do in week 4, so effectively it's not a step up at all! Plus... although it's the dreaded 20 minutes, W5R3 is the shortest work out since you did week 3. Good luck!

[Autocutie Graduate in reply to NetballKitty]

Thank you so much - after reading all the posts and replies I’m feeling fired up and ready to go 😁💪

[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.

This breakdown of W5 may help healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.