Consolidation contemplation!

[Jamicharla]

OK.... So thought I would give another little update as my last post was written after what felt like a very deflating consolidation run. 😕

Firstly... THANK YOU! 🙏 I had so many helpful people offer words of advice... still in the process of trying out all sorts of tips and I am soooo grateful for the guidance!

I have realised that the first real question post graduation is 'do I really want to be a runner?'... sounds silly, but actually without a programme to run to Ive realised that the motivation and drive (for me anyway), has to come from the desire to RUN, as opposed to wanting to reach the next week!

The good news is... I do!!Hard work or not, I've realised I really enjoy the satisfaction that comes with running and this is something I actually want to keep in my life moving forward! Yay! 🏃‍♀️

So... most important lesson I've learnt: KEEP THE SLOWER PACE... feel like this is something I keep re-discovering the importance of... slowing down even just a little bit makes a tough run so much EASIER and so much more ENJOYABLE!! 🤗. I am always trying to compete with myself so I naturally want to push harder. BUT... taking the pressure off makes the whole run more fun AND more often than not, the overall difference is so minimal, or better still you improve without evening trying!!... 😱 think this still surprises me most of all!! 🤣

I've also taken the advice to stop focusing so much on HAVING to run 30mins minimum... so I've tried shorter and longer runs depending on how I feel... liberating or what?!

I've tried coach-free runs, but i do like the check ins, so I tried the c25k+ speed podcast. I enjoyed the actual run, but Laura froze on me twice which was very distracting! Have since tried out NRC and I LOVE the guided runs... would definitely recommend these if you like a coach in your ear. Next stop for me is a podcast. Someone recommended Michael McIntyre, so I'm planning this next!!

Think what I most want to share is my excitement for running again!!! 🤗🤗🤗 I had read the hiccups people have had during the consolidation period... i didn't think that would be me. But it absolutely has been... and I'm pleased to say... it seems to have passed!! Phew!

So... wherever you are on your running journey.... you can and WILL get through the wobble!! Believe in yourself! You've got this! Just be proud that you are out there - I mean how awesome is that?! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[HelenofTroy123 Graduate]

This is so useful and lovely to read!! I too have had the discussion with myself over “is this something I want to keep up” and yes I do actually enjoy running and with a friend I’ve found! I’m going to try adding a 20 min run this week and work on pace whilst enjoying the longer runs

Keep at it - so lovely to hear from you

[Jamicharla Graduate in reply to HelenofTroy123]

Ah thanks lovely! Nice to hear from you too! Its strange isn't it! Glad to know you've decided its for you too!! Did not expect to struggle so much through this period. I was eager to get on with the bridge to 10k, but I've realised that its really worth bedding in the progress first!

Glad to hear you have found something that's working for you. I quite like the freedom of running solo, so im sceptical about trying with a friend! I think once I'm feeling more confident in the 5k runs I might give it a try! 🤣

Definitely think that varying the length of times is a game changer! Keep me posted on your progress!

[Hareshaw-Granny Graduate]

Really enjoyed your post, very upbeat, just what I was needing to read right now. Have done 10 consolidation runs and now pondering what to do. Especially after this morning when I stubbed my toe on the bed leg and reckon running off the calendar for the next few days😱. Anyway you've inspired me to look ahead thanks for that.

[Jamicharla Graduate in reply to Hareshaw-Granny]

Really glad to read this! This forum has helped me so much, so Im glad I can be of help too! Hope your toe heals quickly! Sounds painful!

[Jamicharla Graduate]

Thank you! Completely agree! Feels so liberating to just choose what you fancy and know that its OK, whatever choice you make!

[Overweightandunfit Graduate]

Glad you’ve got your running mojo back and are enjoying it again.

[SammiN3 Graduate]

Thank you!

Im on week 9 and I love the week to week plotting and improving. It's good to know there are more things out there beside the couch to 10k which im not sure is my goal.

I was worrying about what I would use as my goal after, but this post I know it can also be for fun!

[Jamicharla Graduate in reply to SammiN3]

Ah congratulations! Hope your last few runs go well!! This last week is sooooo rewarding so enjoy!!

Definitely takes some adjusting post c25k, but mainly because it all becomes your choice, which is actually pretty awesome!