Had my first consolidation run today and yikes I found it harder than I’d expected. I managed 30 minutes but at a much slower pace than my previous run. Wasn’t breathing as well as before and felt a little unsatisfied throughout. I’ve been eating well, drinking plenty of water and sleeping pretty decently this week so I think this may have been a mental block? Hoping that my next consolidation run feels better (even if I don’t go much faster) and keep having to remind myself I’m still pretty new to this running game! Has anyone else had this experience with consolidation runs? How did you overcome it?
CR1 - harder than I anticipated!: Had my first... - Couch to 5K
CR1 - harder than I anticipated!
I think literally everyone can find the consolidation runs a bit of a bumpy ride to be honest. At this stage you're still quite a new runner and now, without a voice in your ear, it can be strange.
I remember struggling beyond 20 minutes on a few consolidation runs, whereas others felt perfect.
A few things which could be happening here are
- you're getting used to running for 30 minutes
- you may be setting off too fast
- maybe you're a bit bored with your route.
I found changing routes really helpful. It will settle down, please don't be discouraged, this is so normal! 😊
Ahhh good to know I’m not alone! Thanks for your helpful tips - I will set off at a steady pace tomorrow, experiment with a new route and just bear in mind that I can relax and just take it run by run. Also need to remind myself how fun running is - that it’s a real treat to be outside making my muscles work!
In addition to the stuff Roxdog said, some days you simply haven't the mojo. There are often no obvious reasons why.
First consolidation run was much like yours so I slowed it right down at the beginning which helped me get through the first ten minutes and then seemed to up the pace a bit naturally. I'm not making rapid progress but adding a bit of distance each time. Just pleased to make it through to 30 minutes and the satisfaction that goes with making small amounts of progress, and just being out there!