Looking for advice : I (amazingly) graduated the... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

134,100 members159,471 posts

Looking for advice

MartyH80 profile image
MartyH80Graduate
5 Replies

I (amazingly) graduated the c25k about 3 weeks ago now and have since been doing solid 5k runs 3 times a week averaging a pace of about 9'40 and completing within 32 minutes.

My question is, do I now push on to training for a 10k run or do I stick with the 5k and concentrate on improving my time?

I feel like I'd like to try the 10k but don't know if it would be technically better for me to 1st improve my 5k time?

Written by
MartyH80 profile image
MartyH80
Graduate
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
5 Replies
IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

If you are comfortable with your 5k runs then why not move onto 10k. Moving up to 10k is again not about speed but about building duration.

In my opinion getting more miles on your legs will improve your 5k time and you build the miles more by doing longer runs than shorter ones.

The guide to post C25k running healthunlocked.com/couchto5... has links to the Bridge to 10k forum and other options for building your distance, but please don't try to beat your pb on every run.......slow runs build stamina and endurance.

Mobiliseandmove profile image
Mobiliseandmove

It really comes down to what you want to achieve, and WHY you want to achieve it.

What is the value of running a faster 5K to you?

What is the value of running a 10K to you?

Which is more valuable to you?

Is there a different goal that would be even more valuable to you?

Hopefully these questions can direct you towards the goal that's right for you.

Take care :-)

Adam

sTrongFuse profile image
sTrongFuseGraduate

For me, the two went hand in hand. I got comfortable at 5k but my speed remained pretty constant. It was only when I'd built and consolidated at 10k that I noticed a dramatic change in my speed over 5k.

A year on and I'm definitely faster now, and I can run much further too, but really I've just got to the "lace up my shoes, follow my nose and not actually care too much about how far or fast I run" stage. It's just about the enjoyment of doing something that feels good and has both physical and mental benefits.

Good luck whatever you decide.

MartyH80 profile image
MartyH80Graduate in reply tosTrongFuse

Love that, its far to easy to get hooked up on speed or distance but the reality is however far or fast I go the benefits are all the same in terms of well-being.

Thank you

Speedy60 profile image
Speedy60Graduate

To run fast, you need to run slow. Long slow running will build your strength and stamina. Either follow the 10k plan or gradually increase your distance by 10% each week (that's how I did it). Every 4th or 5th run, try your fastest 5k. You'll find your time improving!

Good luck

Not what you're looking for?

You may also like...

Progressing to 10k - any advice please?

Hi, I graduated at the beginning of the summer. I hoped to move on to 10k running, but got a bit...
Tootsvanoots profile image
Graduate

First postgrad run and looking ahead

Like many of the graduates, I was facing uncertainty when it comes to the big question: now what? I...
ench0 profile image
Graduate

Questions for Graduates

Just a couple of questions for those that have graduated: 1. How long did it take you from...
Grandadmike profile image
Graduate

ouch! & training for a 10k

After the high of completing the 5k parkrun on Saturday, I was changing the bed on Sunday and...

Looking for Advice- Beginner

Hi 🤚 im Emily, im 30 and i just started running!! I want to finally get fit 👊🏽 Using the couch...
Runner01 profile image

Moderation team

See all
Annieapple profile image
AnnieappleAdministrator
MissUnderstanding profile image
MissUnderstandingAdministrator
Yesletsgo profile image
YesletsgoAdministrator

Content on HealthUnlocked does not replace the relationship between you and doctors or other healthcare professionals nor the advice you receive from them.

Never delay seeking advice or dialling emergency services because of something that you have read on HealthUnlocked.