W5R3 completed, wow!

[Sax64]

Wow, 20 minutes non stop, it feels like a massive achievement but...I'm following the slow jog regime and it's great and I am feeling good but according to garmin I'm not keeping my heart rate down in the aerobic range whilst running. Now my breathing is steady and regular, I'm not out of breath and it feels like I'm in a steady comfortable rhythm. In fact I decided to stop looking at my watch all the time and just be mindful of how I feel and just do it, which is far more enjoyable. Is this OK?

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

It’s not just ok, it’s absolutely perfect! Finding that comfortable, steady, regular breathing where you can speak in full sentences is the holy grail of couch to 5k running! It sounds like you absolutely nailed it. Running by feel is a brilliant way to run.

Keep it up!

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Congratulations on completing week 5.I really wouldn't pay too much attention to the Garmin numbers .

For one , they are based on the 220-age calculation which is certainly NOT a one size fits all calculation .

Running at a conversational pace and making a judgement on your perceived effort is a much better way to keep your heart rate in check .

Enjoy the rest of the programme

[Sax64 Graduate in reply to Instructor57]

Thanks to you and MissUnderstanding. That's very encouraging and I feel much better about continuing into W6 now. I'll continue with listening to my body 😌

[Instructor57 Graduate in reply to Sax64]

If you would like more info on heart rate you may find this post from our FAQ's useful 🙂healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Sax64 Graduate]

Thanks, that's very illuminating. I'll now start treating my watch as a guide only from now on👍

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

It's the right way to go, Garmin can be a silly a*** at times and you are doing great

[Kirst13 Graduate]

Totally go by feel and don't trust the watch! Garmin warned me my heart rate was low just after a run yesterday - it was 119bpm!!