Traffic lights whilst running outside

[DiogoC]

I'm starting Couch to 5K again following an injury.

A question I've always had was if you run outside and you have to wait at a traffic light during one of your runs, does that impact your progress too much?

Particularly in the first few weeks when runs are shorter (imagine having to wait 30 seconds out of your minute run at a traffic light).

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

No, I just jog on the spot. You get used to stopping for all sorts of things. If you’re running outside it can’t usually be totally avoided.

I should have said-really good luck with the programme. It’s brilliant.

[nowster Graduate]

Either jog on the spot or run back and forth a bit until the light goes green for you.

I try to choose routes that have as few interactions with traffic as possible, but on longer runs it's almost impossible to avoid at least one major road crossing.

A few seconds of jogging on the spot won't affect things.

Get your A-to-Z out and be creative! 😆

[Hidden]

Like the others have said, I just run on the spot while waiting to cross. I did stop and wait a couple of times when there were others waiting to cross (as I felt a bit stupid jogging while everyone stood and watched me), but found it hard to get going again. That only lasted a minute or so but did interrupt my flow. I don't care now if others find it amusing.

I suppose the impact you would receive not waiting for the lights to change would have far greater consequences!!!

[DiogoC Graduate in reply to Hidden]

ahah. yes, having felt that impact once in my life, i'd rather not have it again

[rattling_bones]

I wondered about this too! I've yet to complete my C25K training but found this post in the Bridge to 10K section of healthunlocked:

healthunlocked.com/bridgeto...

Well done on re-starting!

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

I have never stopped at one, I just take the turn they enforce on me, cross when it’s safe and then run back on the opposite side of the road.

[DiogoC Graduate in reply to UnfitNoMore]

thats a good idea. ill consider that.

[Frenc Graduate]

Ooooh I used to find traffic lights so annoying! I’ve got used to them now and just sort of wait for them to do their thing. They can’t be avoided really. I tend to jog on the spot or jiggle about a bit. 😊😊😊. Good luck with your runs!