Week 8 tough

[Foxylou]

Hi all, I've just finished week 8 but what a tough week that was and I'm not sure why!Yes the obvious is its a longer time running and it's hot..

I know speed isn't everything and ive never been fast more of a snails pace which is fine im happy with that but I seem to be getting even slower!

So i went out in the evening last night when it was a bit cooler but didn't make any difference in fact I was slower !

I've done two Park runs over the last couple of months and was fine now I don't think I could do it !

Any one experienced similar or have any ideas? Thanks.🙃

[Hillrunner2201]

Well done and remember a run is run and all runs are better than not running! I did w8r1 this morning and also found it hard and was slower than usual. I think it was a combination of the heat, the extra 3 minutes running, running a different route, getting up and running earlier than normal and not sleeping well last night due to the heat. I think it’s just a case of trusting the program and keeping going. Everyone has bad runs and there’s sometimes no particular reason. I did one extra run on week 7 before moving to week 8 so maybe do an extra run or 2 on week 8 before moving to week 9 if you don’t feel quite ready?

[Foxylou Graduate in reply to Hillrunner2201]

Thanks for your reply. Yes I guess its a combination of things and can't underestimate the hot weather.

Yeah maybe i will do an extra couple of runs before moving on like you say any run is better than no run.

Well done to you too on week 8 run 1 🤗

[MissUnderstanding Administrator]

Great advice from  Hillrunner2201 . I agree entirely! I’ll add that by the end of the programme, I was just generally tired from all the running. I found an extra rest day, especially in the hot weather was needed and that helped,

The important thing to remember is you aren’t a worse runner after today’s run than before it! You’ve still got those miles in your legs. You’ve got the experience of what a tough run feels like and you still completed it. Those things will make you a better runner. It’s hard to keep a tricky run in perspective and not suddenly feel like you’re a terrible runner (I’m also talking to myself here!!) but the more you run, the more tough days you’ll have and the easier it gets to remember that it’s just one of those runs. Most runs are lovely! Often after a hard one, the next one is nice!

Perhaps really focus on recovering well with hydration, stretches and eating well. When the next one comes along, take it extra steady and plan a nice route with some good music.

Everyone has these doubts. You’re doing brilliantly. Before you know it, you’ll be graduating again. Looking forward to hearing how you get on next time. 🏃‍♀️💪❤️

[Foxylou Graduate in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Thank you for your reply, that's given me a real boost ☺️

[Leotigris Graduate]

You could try early morning instead. It tends to be cooler in the morning than the evening when the sun has warmed the air and all the surfaces are radiating the heat that they have gained during the day. Also, you may be less tired. Are you drinking enough?

[Foxylou Graduate in reply to Leotigris]

I will try to get out earlier thats a good point. No I don't think i drink enough really so will try to increase . Thanks for your suggestions.