Did the 2nd run of week 5 this morning so over half way and a whole week and a half further than I got back in March!
I have made the 'mistake' of looking ahead and I see that run 3 is one 20 minute run. Now, forewarned is forearmed and all that, and I'm sure I can physically do it, but was wondering if anyone had any tips for helping with the mental task of running for 20 mins?
Ta!
Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.
W5R3 is just another run in the progressive structure of C25K........of course you can do it.
This breakdown of W5 may help allay your fears 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.
Enjoy your journey.
Thanks for the advice, the W5 breakdown is very interesting!
Slow! Then slower 🤣. That’s how I got through it. You’ll feel absolutely brilliant after, best of luck 😊😊😊.
Remember what the goal is... 30 minutes of continuous running, 3 times, in Week 9.
W5R3 is, as your post rightly suggests, a mental test (as is the whole of C25K to be honest).
W5R3 is mentally preparing you for the runs that have no running breaks - and they are coming quickly 
How to go about it?
1. Start slow. Really really slowly and build into it. You'll be pleasantly surprised if you get the pace right.
2. In your heard, break into 5 minute chunks.
That's all there is to it.
You'll be fine.
Crack on!
Much like they say, a watched kettle never boils, if you worry about the time passing, it’ll feel like forever. 🙂
Do you listen to music while you run? It’s allowed with the C25k app playing over it. It’s a nice distraction from worrying about the time left to go, especially during the longer gaps when the coach doesn’t speak.
Physically, nothing to worry about if you’ve followed the plan, it’s just those mental what ifs? You’ll be fine, nothing bad will happen, just another run.
Have a great one! 🙂
Nobody seems to get worried about the transition from week 3 to week 4, which is actually much harder.
Hi !!! I have been there !!!! The 20 min jump scared me too !! But it works ! The program is made for this. Do not worry ! Trust in yourself. All you ve done so far prepared you to the 20min ! I started slow to « save myself » i also chose a road that was « easier » with less hills to climb. In anycase it is only in your head. This is the turning point. You ll do it and from there it s better.I understand totally where you are i was there a few weeks ago. Remmeber the first 5 min !! Same feeling! 20 is just a number ! Go out there, run it don t over think it. And come back to tell us you did it so i can tell you « i told you so!! »
No pressure, it is not an exam ! If for whatever reason you can t , do you best and repeat the week no one will judge you !!! You re doing amazing already !
I am 46yo overweight and i did it !! Anyone can !!
Cheers !!!!
Don't sweat it. You've got this. Embrace it. Everything, so far, has prepared you for this.Get the music on and go for it.
Well done on your achievement so far. When I started the 20 min run I just thought “don’t stop” because if I did I would have had to start it all over again!🤣. When it was completed I felt an amazing sense of achievement. Good luck.☘️
The struggle is real! 
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