First failed run - need a pick me up

[dolphin_lover]

Hi everyone, first time poster here! Today I attempted W6R3 but had to take a short walking break in the middle because I had stitch. I carried on running after about a minute but I’m feeling really deflated after the run. It felt like everything was off with my run today: difficulty breathing, aches and pains, lack of motivation and pace, and it’s just got me worried. This is the first run I’ve not completed, and I’m worried that it’s so late in the program to start failing - any advice?

[Instructor57 Graduate]

I wouldn't beat yourself up about it , yes, it's frustrating but nothing more than that.

Just take another rest day , make absolutely sure you are hydrated and motivated then go out and run it slower as you said breathing was an issue .

Look at it more as practice for the long runs rather than a failure . 👍

[Peachy40]

Hi,

A 'bad' run is better than no run. I would have considered that completed even if it meant a short rest to catch your breath.

You can always redo it if it makes you feel better, but you haven't failed.

[Maxi80 in reply to Peachy40]

A bad run is better than no run 👏🏻

[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.

Everything going on in our lives can impact on our performance as a runner. Restedness, hydration and nutrition are at the top of my list of variables that need to be optimised to enable enjoyable running.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hidden]

There's no such thing as a failed run! Each run "good" or "bad" is all part of the process. If you need to repeat a run or or a week, so be it, your fitness is still improving. And you Will get there! Or don't beat yourself up 😊

[Jimioldlegs]

Many of us have these runs. As said, don't be too hard on yourself. Repeat the run take it slower, move on , you'll be fine.👍

[dolphin_lover]

Thanks everyone, I went out again this morning and had a much better run!

[SundayColeman Graduate]

I had exactly this today and on the same run.

I graduated (and then gave up running -such a silly decision, I so much regret it!) last winter so I have decided to start again. My biggest issue is motivation and that is a tricky one. Bad runs happen, I guess it is part of the learning curve. That said, you have inspired me to look up and see who else struggles with motivation and learn some techniques.

You are not failing, be sure about this, trust the community!