First run of week 7 done. Been struggling (both, to finish runs, and motivation-wise) since week 5. That being said, I still keep managing the runs and I'm, pretty much, completely injury free, so far (although I did put a knee support on, for one run when my knee was a bit iffy). I think, after a while, it's far more of a mental challenge than a physical one (especially, as my depression has been quite bad lately). My legs start feeling like lead, only 3 or so minutes in. I feel my head and body feeling really hot, within 5 minutes. Then it's a gruelling 20 plus minutes to keep going after that.
Keep going, everyone. Rest and recover if you need some extra time away. But don't give up. One step at a time.
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Deej182
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Fair point. Water, no. I basically live off tea. I would imagine I'm getting about 2.5-3L of tea in, per day. But it is a diuretic. Maybe it's time I start drinking more water!
I found the same as I got further through the program. Week 7 was a low point. I was just really tired! I think that’s pretty common-we see a lot of people posting similar experiences. It does get easier. Extra rest can help. Adding strength and flex work on rest days can actually help too! You might be pleased to know that although tea isn’t as hydrating as water, it still counts towards your fluid intake.
You’re not alone there! Most of us would rather just run but it’s really important for helping you stay injury free. I’m saying this recovering from an injury and everything I’ve got from the physio is about getting stronger to stop it recurring.
There’s a lot to think about as you’re starting off so just let it build into your routine over time. The strength and flex forum is a great place to help you get started. I know there are some exciting posts coming soon so it’s worth a look!
you're not alone in your struggle, we all have low periods and week 7 is hard, it's the first week with no walk breaks at all - mentally that's a challenge, but you'll find it does get easier. I find it helps to a) be stubborn and decide not to quit the programme and b) remind myself why I started and why I want to do this.
I second the water/hydration. It makes a huge difference to my legs (and lots of other stuff.
Brilliant for your achievement so far. With your other challenges, you’re doing great!
I have the same points among my run where my gremlins are either trying to convince me I have no motivation to run, or my aches are telling me to stop.
I read something a couple of months ago that has completely transformed my thought process and enjoyment of running - it was simple- when these thoughts/aches come along it’s to answer them with ‘yep, that’s how I feel at this part of the run/before run’ and carry on. It’s almost like accepting that’s how my brain works and not trying to battle the thought makes it go away.
I don’t know if that makes any sense but, having battled with motivation and completing runs, (even 10 minute ones), this simple change has turned everything around.
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