I’ve reached week 7 and, to my surprise, found run 1 easy. In fact, I now want to jump ahead. Is this wise?
Before going on I should say that I am a fully paid up member of the very slow jogging club.
So, should I 1) stick to the programme at my shuffling speed and consolidate, 2) stick to the programme but try to speed up a bit, 3) stick with my comfortable speed and build stamina by upping the time/distance?
All advice really welcome.
Keep to No. 1 for the moment, not until you graduate after running run 3 of week 9 and running at least 4/30 minute consolidation runs go to No. 3 on your list.It is dangerous to "jump the gun" so to speak, as like running on consecutive days could cause a injury.
I know how you feel ,I felt like that early on (now on week 6) but thought this is a tried and tested programme , I would stick to plan. You have less than 3 weeks to go. Good luck.
Wise? No! Stick to the plan OldShuffler, you won’t regret it - each run you do is preparing you for the next one and you don’t want to jeopardise that. Don’t worry about speed at this point, stick to what you’re comfortable with. I’m the world’s slowest runner , I know I’ll never come close to a 30 minute 5km but that’s OK. When you’ve finished the plan take some time to consolidate (the norm is around 3 x 30 minute runs for 3 weeks) and then the world is yours! Speed up, slow down, run further, run longer, it’s your choice!
I shall challenge for the title of worlds slowest runner next time we are both in that place I cannot spell!🏴
Good advice above. Slower running is the way to develop your muscles, respiratory system and, counterintuitively, speed(!) sooner than fast running.
Being ready for more is great... being able to fight that urge and stick to plans is awesome.
Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.
We are all capable of doing way more than our bodies are conditioned to do, but not without increasing our injury risk. Sticking to gently progressive training plans is the safest way to push our limits, whilst gently increasing our resistance to injury.
Injury often strikes out of the blue and can stop you for days, weeks or even months.
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.
Enjoy your journey.
You've received wise words so far OldShuffler the programme is designed to build you up slowly, you need to follow it or you'll risk injury.Slow and steady is better as it puts less stress on your body. More details in this post. I'm slow and I'm just mastering 8K after 8 months of graduating, you will get there it will take time and every run matters.
healthunlocked.com/couchto5...
Complete the programme, consolidate and don't forget your core strengthening exercises you can also incorporate this into the C25K programme, just don't forget the rest day.
Stick with the plan, slow and steady, it will get you exactly where you want to be, safely, injury free and having had fun! 
Funny enough, I thought the same at week 7! I think I felt a bit euphoric at achieving a longer run and with relative ease. However I did stick with the program and found the following weeks tough! I’ve since graduated but I now use week 7 as my run guide. I think it’s a mental thing? I know I can do it with ease, at the end of the 25mins, if I feel up to it, I keep going. I’m not fast, so my aim is increase my distance and pace. So far my best is 4K. Week 7 for what ever reason, is the most motivating for me! Good luck with your journey!
Thanks everyone for your encouragement and sound words of advice. I have followed the advice and will finish week 8 on Monday. Everything is going well.
Looking forward to graduating in a week or so’s time. Then on to consolidation. See, I can follow rules😉
Is it too early to do park run?
Finale! Ready for the encore 😂
Ready to start week 6, question?
Turned up too early for 5K Fun run !!
Rested, recovered and managed Wk 3 R1 and ready for more.
