Wk4R3 struggles

[Meesh_W]

Hi everyone, I completed week 4 on Tuesday and felt really disappointed with it, it was probably the worst I’ve felt after a run since starting this journey. I was thinking of repeating week 4 so I feel confident in moving to week 5.....has anyone else felt like this or repeated a week?

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

You can't expect every run to 'feel good'. Running or any regular exercise just doesn't work like that. You'll have good days and bad days. The most important thing is make a habit out of it.

How your run/exercise feels depends a lot on your physical and mental well-being at that point in time. So your sleep, stress levels, diet, hydration will all affect how your run feels.

If you completed your Week 4 runs, then simply move onto Week 5. As long as you are going slow enough, and your breathing is nice and easy (you can chat comfortably), then you'll be fine.

Watch this - it might help:

youtube.com/watch?v=9L2b2kh...(Not working as expected?)

[Meesh_W in reply to John_W]

Thank you so much for your advice John, it made me stop and think about how far I’ve come in four weeks, from a non runner to now feeling comfortable running for 5 minutes without keeling over! I’m so glad I posted now as it has completely changed my mindset. Thank you!

[John_W Graduate Ambassador in reply to Meesh_W]

You're welcome and glad to hear it. Mindset is critical - C25K is NOT a physical test... but a mental one. Your brain is telling you stuff that you shouldn't listen to! Switch if off

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

If you struggle with any run just slow down.

This post explores the variables that impact our running. healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

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.

Relax and enjoy your journey.

[Meesh_W in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you!! The article was a real help and I’m now determined to tackle week 5 with a new mindset 😄