Wk9R3 complete.....is there a happily ever after?

[beat-the-bubba-chub]

So....i completed wk9r3 at the weekend and am now into my consolidation runs. I found wk9 tough and it didn't seem to get any easier as the week progressed . I want to keep up the runs but the past couple of weeks Ive just been a little demotivated and tired at the thought of going out for a run...in fact I seem to be getting slower at it. Anyone have any tips and advice on how to get out of this slump and revive my mojo?

[Jillybean0141 Graduate]

I've just started consolidation runs myself but best advice I can give you is take the pressure off yourself. I've set my timer for 30 minutes and just headed out to see how I get on. It's been a mixed bag of shorter runs at 21 and 27 mins because I was tired and out of puff and slightly longer runs of 33 and today my first 38 mins. Just try different options and maybe vary your route for a change of scenery to see what works for you.

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate in reply to Jillybean0141]

So glad it isn't just me. Yes similarly I'm feeling like I don't have the energy to consistently run 30mins. Usually I'm up early in the morn and motivated but been struggling of late. Determined to keep it up though.

[Jillybean0141 Graduate in reply to beat-the-bubba-chub]

Definitely not just you. The main thing is you are getting out there and it all counts. Just listen to your body and take it slow and steady. I think the biggest challenge is mental most of the time. You've got this!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Many congratulations on your graduation, fellow runner.

This guide to post C25k running may be helpful healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

You can always pop into the Consolidation Club to see what others are doing healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Keep running, keep smiling.

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

thank you. I will do. We are off to Wales for a week soon so I'm hoping the change of scenery will reactivate my mojo.

[Hidden]

I know what you mean, my consolidation runs (3 in 3 wks!) have been tough and life has got in the way or lack of motivation. I’m going to carry on as usually feel great after running despite sometimes trying to talk myself out of it 😂 Keep on going you are a runner now and have achieved so much! 😁💫🌈

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate in reply to Hidden]

yes...this is very much how I'm feeling. I WILL find my mojo...but just maybe not today.

[Hidden in reply to beat-the-bubba-chub]

There is no rush - go when you are ready 😉

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

Have you tried the three excellent supplementary C25K+ podcasts? Speed, Stamina and Stepping Stones. They mix it up and they might help you find your mojo. WIll break the monotony of a normal 30 minute run.

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate in reply to John_W]

well definitely look into these. Currently though I'm still finding it tough to run 30mins non-stop (I use the word 'run' in the loosest sense). I do manage 30mins but it isn't getting any easier and if I go slower I'd be going backwards! perhaps the podcasts might be enough to shake me out of this 'funk' i.e. a change in pace might help drive me forward

[John_W Graduate Ambassador in reply to beat-the-bubba-chub]

In which case the Speed podcast is perfect for you. It's not what you think. Give it a try

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate in reply to John_W]

erm....where do I find this podcast???

[CBDB Graduate in reply to beat-the-bubba-chub]

It’s called NHS choices - NHS Couch to 5k+ and has different episodes including “stepping stones”, “stamina” and “speed”. It should be findable in various podcast apps.

[John_W Graduate Ambassador in reply to beat-the-bubba-chub]

nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/c...

Have a look under 'keep on running' - that whole page is worth reading for you I think. Lots of handy ideas.

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate]

thank you...heading there now. Incidentally, I just read/watched your post/clips regarding Japanese slow running technique and it's really struck a chord with me...I'm beginning to feel that mojo creeping back in 😊

[CBDB Graduate in reply to beat-the-bubba-chub]

Yes, I am super-, super slow but have managed to get out there regularly, am on my 8th or so consolidation run and am still enjoying it immensely. It is really rather a joy than a struggle, and I think the biggest factors for the enjoyment were: slow running and music! (And this Community! 😊)

I am also following the NHS 12-week fitness programme replacing the C25k runs with consolidation runs, and this gives me some structure. I certainly look forward going from week to week and run to run, so it’s working!

Hope you find some method to keep you going! You have achieved so much, now it’s about keeping on keeping on!

[Howfarisit]

I am one run behind you and eager to get out and do it. Did myself a disservice on last run (didn't listen to my body which was run down and I made it worse). Well done

[beat-the-bubba-chub Graduate in reply to Howfarisit]

yeahy! go do it! After posting this morning and the replies and advices given in response I can feel that mojo creeping back in. Love that feeling of just wanting to get out there and do it. Been missing/lacking in it the last 2 weeks. Happy to feel it returning 😆