Hit a wall - not literally

[MB1960]

Hi, I'm on Week 4 of C25K and have hit a wall, struggling with the 5 minute run time. I've been a runner in the past but I'm now in my 60s and finding it tough to stay running more than 2-3 minutes. Any tips or hints to help me get over this hump?

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Well done with your progress!My first question whenever someone is finding a run tough would be to ask are you pushing too hard ?

By that I mean are you running at a conversational pace ?

ie a pace where you could hold a conversation with someone if they were running along side you without having to gasp for breath ?

If not then it's too fast.

Sometimes this pace could be slower than your brisk walking pace and that's fine .

[MB1960 in reply to Instructor57]

Many thanks. I think we are all guilty of expecting too much from ourselves. Due to a new health condition I have been advised to increase my activity, hence C25K. Appreciate your time and advice.

[Instructor57 Graduate in reply to MB1960]

I understand!

I am also increasing my activity following a heart attack.

The 'Conversational pace' when running though is the most efficient way to build your aerobic base which is why we recommend that to everyone on the program.

Incidentally, have you seen our programme guide?

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[MB1960 in reply to Instructor57]

Brilliant thanks, no I hasn't. Helpful to know there are others in similar situations. And slow jogging is my new goal.

[Adabell in reply to MB1960]

Hi All, gotta agree, I love slow jogging.

This is my third time round at C25K having graduated in 2020 (loved the cheers and clapping 😄)

Having watched “my little man” on the YouTube video has transformed my style and allowed me to give myself permission to run slower; no even slower. It feels fabulous, almost bouncing around like a Springer 😂and mentally sets me up for the next run.

Hubby and I are now on W4R2 and really enjoying it. Finding less ‘undulating’ runs is a challenge near us, but flatter runs also make a big difference both physically and mentally.

I now have “mlm” tagged and watch him before each run to remind myself.

Thanks to all on here for being supportive.

[duffywed]

Well done on your progress so far, fantastic, repeat the week until youre comfortable with it, no need to rush

[MB1960 in reply to duffywed]

Thanks so much. I already take part in 3 gym sessions per week and an aquarist class, and I walk a lot too so I thought that the running would be a bit easier than it is. Onwards and upwards!

[Cmoi Graduate]

Hi MB1960 , when I started C25K, aged 59, I had the sporting history of a tin of tomato soup. Except that the soup would've been picked before me in school games lessons on the basis of its being more useful.

I was lucky, as that meant I had no expectations of myself. Maybe just take things a bit slower if you need to, forget about the runner you were before, and concentrate on enjoying your running as the person you are now. You may well yet achieve much more than you think, just not necessarily in the same way as before. 😃

[MB1960 in reply to Cmoi]

Thank you! You made me smile and with encouragement from you and others, you make me want to keep going 👏😁

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

I started at 65... thought I may well die on that first run... in my youth I had been a fast runner... and ran for my County...and my University... I was not the same person as then. on that first C25K run and I am not that same runner as when I began this programme, now.

I am 8 years older... stronger, more determined, more confident... and still slow and steady.. the only difference is... the slow and steady now is faster and further than it was when I began this....running regularly, things evolve... !

Just run...check that link that Instructor57 has given you.... loads of great advice there... follow the programme, take it slow and steady, as slow as you need to feel comfortable... have confidence in it... and in yourself... believe you can do it and know you will succeed.

As has been said... you will be amazed where this running, this time, will take you and although in a different way... still absolutely incredible!

I am 73 now... still here, still running and still loving every single run !

[MB1960 in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks, you reply is an inspiration. Great advice on the link as you say. 👍

[JetSetWilly Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Hi Oldfloss, Love reading your replies!Wow 73 and still going for it! what an inspiration to all us young'ns (I was 63 on Friday!) Ha Ha.

Quoting youtube doctor Steven Hulme

"If you can't run, walk, if you can't walk, Crawl"

(Done that a few times metophorically speaking)

Its a good advice though, if you can't run, slow down and walk, sadly sometimes we dont listen to our bodies, especially when just starting. The sad thing is so many who are in there later years give up the C25K to early which is a shame because the health benefits are so worthwhile. Personally before I went back to running I had to lose a stone in weight as I had issues with one of my hips, since then though no issues (touch wood)

I love seeing people running who may be plus size but I always think back to my experience and hope they dont injure themselves. I remember so much wanting to start the C25K but knew if I did so before losing some weight I would be back to sqaure one having to repeat the programme again which I did at least twice. Having said that, no matter what, I was determined to complete the programme and I am so glad I did as it has changed my life so much for the better. So for those who maybe reading this who feel like giving up my advice is to do whatever you need too complete the C25K it really is life changing

Happy Running/Walking

Jet

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate in reply to JetSetWilly]

Just in case it isn’t clear-Steven Hulme is not a medical doctor. He’s a chiropractor. His website has the following disclaimer:

Any reference to “Dr” on this website relates to the full title of Doctor of Chiropractic. This is a courtesy title and does not indicate that a general medical qualification is held.

I wouldn’t want anyone to be confused.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate in reply to JetSetWilly]

... I agree with MissUnderstanding totally. We have to be so careful not to disseminate any misleading information in our posts or replies.

The dangers of running when we are not fit too, are something we should all be very aware of; and sometimes even slow, is not a good thing. See Catch-up Corner post.

Fortunately... I am able to run...

[backintime Graduate]

you've been given great advice here, I also vote for slowing down - it's much easier - and you can always get faster once you have a solid base

[hamit Graduate]

Slow up to finish. If you are overtaking Brian the Snail 🐌 you are going too fast.

[MB1960 in reply to hamit]

Thank you! I'm running with a friend next week, hoping she will pace me.

[Sisteract5 Graduate]

glad you’re back to running - anything you’re doing is enough. I’m sure it’ll all come together . Enjoy