Consolidation runs getting harder

[Clash1979]

I have just completed my 8th consolidation run after graduating a few weeks ago. Each consolidation run has felt harder than the previous one. This one was my slowest 30 minutes to date. Nothing has changed that I can pinpoint. Stretches pre and post run, at least one rest day, hydration, rest and nutrition are fine. I’m not trying to run faster just note the distance as I finish so notice I’m getting slower and it feels harder. I’m using the same few routes and the last one was one of the easier routes! Any ideas why it is getting more difficult as I was so happy to have completed C25k and now I really don’t enjoy the runs?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

The monthly Consolidation Club exists for new graduates, just like you, who are struggling.healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Pop in, see what others are doing and have a chat.

I am a strong believer in having short (weekly), medium and long term aims for your running, otherwise it can seem aimless and unrewarding, as mentioned in the guide to post C25K running healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Clash1979 in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you. I’ll check into the group.

[Beastie_MCCXIX Graduate]

Like us all, you will have good runs and bad runs. Sometimes a few bad runs on the trot. It can be a few things, things on your mind, not enough fluids, tiredness etc... One thing I really miss was the app and that feeling of safety in the plan.

I'm told Nike Run Club has an app that talks you through runs if you miss that or set a goal(s) and track them like you did on the c25k programme.

Have a think about what the difference is and try a few other things out.

You've come a great way, do not lose it. You'll get there.

[Clash1979 in reply to Beastie_MCCXIX]

Thank you for the encouragement. I’ll have a look at NRC 😊

[SassyF Graduate]

I’d definitely recommend trying the Nike run club for guided runs. Some people love it, and some don’t- it’s still worth trying it to see if it works for you. Variety in my routes and types of runs have really helped me stay focussed. Without a plan I’m terrible and easily loose interest in things, so I made myself a 4week training plan and stuck it on the fridge to get me through consolidation and on to my next goal. You may just be getting bored with doing the same thing all the time?

[Clash1979 in reply to SassyF]

Yes I think that might be it. Even if a run was hard in the plan I had a goal to aim for but now it feels like a slog. Thank you