Time off

[Beansy24]

Hey folks 😊 I've had about 5 - 6 weeks where I haven't gone out a run, I've still been active in that time walking and doing yoga. Prior to this I'd been running for about a year or so a few times a week. Do you think it's sensible to just go straight out for a gentle 20mins (with warm up and cool down as well) or so, or should I be reverting back to intervals like the first few weeks of C25K? Thanks

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

As stated in the guide to the plan, healthunlocked.com/couchto5... you lose no significant condition in the first two weeks of non running.

After that loss of condition is gradual.

All any of us can do after a lay off is to go out and see what we can comfortably manage, then build back up gently, using C25k or something similar as a guide to weekly increase.

[Mistygoth Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I seem to have swapped more to walking than running recently, only graduated in September. when i've been out for a walk i've had the odd jog and short 5 minute blasts. Just felt like my mojo had gone and I had around 10 days off and a few naff runs prior. Went out today and felt like a running day and I managed my 30 mins, slow and steady but still able to do it so set a short goal and see how you feel after it. I set a 20 min goal and kept going for longer. No pressure, just listen to your body.

[Beansy24 in reply to Mistygoth]

Thanks both of you. I went out, kept the pace slow and steady and did one of the 20min runs. Probably had more in the tank but didn't want to wake up knackered, so left it there. Quite pleased with that!