Getting "caught out" in week 6 ??

[mgrds]

I've noticed a lot of people use the phrase "week 6 run 1 catches you out" - What exactly do people mean by this ?

Is it a physical thing - or is it psychological?

as i see it it looks like the next two runs are aimed at a bit of consolidation while lengthening the overall time I spend in my running shoes (whether running and walking)

It is because people expect it to be much easier but it isn't necessarily (if they are walking briskly as directed ) or that they tend to speed up for shorter runs and get tired?

Just been wondering HOW people have been "caught out" - anyone care to share?

If I am watching I am not "caught out" what exactly are he dangers ? What happened to you ? What exactly should I watch for?

[Instructor57 Graduate]

I think it's all of the things you have mentioned !

And just be aware of them .

Who knows which if any could catch you out !

But for me I guess I just thought it would feel easier than it was but I was wrong ,

Maybe I set off too fast thinking because it was less of a run I would be ok , but I guess everyone's experience will be different .

So whether it is physical or mental I'm not sure , but it is just a couple of runs to be aware of for all the reasons you have said.

But unable to predict what your experience will be

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

People simply find it harder, both physically and mentally, than expected after the emotional high of W5R3. That 20 minute run is a big mental barrier and hurdle for many - it seems to trick the brain into thinking it's plain sailing from there on in. Not so.

But don't be scared into thinking this is Tough Mudder... it's simply a run broken into 3 bits, that's all.

I'm sure you'll be fine.

[Jools2020 Graduate]

I decided not to be caught out, so I played a little mental trick on myself!

I told myself that all the runs up to W5 R3 were in preparation for that run. Now that run is over. Past. History! Been there, done that!

Now I have to prepare for W6 R3! So - back to interval walking. Simples!

It worked for me, I had no problem with either of the first 2 runs in Week 6.

Then after that - I was away! Well, I was away very slowly 😂

[Birdlady64 Graduate]

As others have said, it is all of the things you mention.

But I think John_W pretty much sums it up for me.

Achieving that 20 minute non-stop run in week 5 is a huge psychological boost and it's difficult to repeat that high. It's a bit like England beating The All Blacks in the Rugby World cup semi-final then crashing and burning against South Africa in the final.

For me as well, going back to intervals I found it difficult to get a good rhythm going.

Just don't set out too quickly and you will be fine.

[Getfitordietrying Graduate]

I think it throws people, after the 20 minute run on w5, so maybe they expect it to be a dawdle, because they are running for shorter periods, but the point is you are consolidating, so it is entirely psychological in my view. Honestly, it is fine, just don’t expect it to be easy peasy 😎