Beyond C25K

[Heti]

I’m struggling with this one as it’s not getting easier. The extra 5 minutes is a killer but I’ll persevere even if I re-do this first stage several times. On a more positive note, I’ve gained more stamina for my Zumba class whilst flexing muscles and strengthening my core is improving each Yoga class! Hope you have a lovely Easter 🐣

[Annieapple Administrator Graduate]

🍏 Heti you are doing very well. Take a breather from that run & next time go out and enjoy a shorter run, then try again after a rest day. You will see what happens! 🏃‍♀️🎶

Well done on all the strengthening of the core ! Excellent!! ⭐️ Happy Easter 🐣

[Heti Graduate in reply to Annieapple]

That’s great advice Annieapple! 🙏💚

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

Every plan I’ve done, I’ve added in drop down weeks because I’ve felt tired and in need of a lighter time to recover. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with doing that and personally, I think it’s really helped keep running well longer term. It’s also fine to stick at 30 minutes if you’re enjoying those runs. The main thing is to find something you enjoy.

As an alternative to the stepping stones, you could think about something like the first week of the time based Magic Plan pattern of running (over on bridge) where you do a short, medium and longer run each week. Mixing it up like that was great for me. I did the shorter run as a faster one, but that’s not compulsory. Then you’re not doing 35 minutes every time and it gives you some easier runs (and variety!) to look forward to. Bridge also has a quest where you set your own goals and get support-you might like that too. Don’t let the “to 10k” bit put you off. Anyone who has finished c25k (or similar!) is welcome! No pressure at all and you can also post both here and there if you like. I’ll put some links below in case they’re helpful but feel free to ignore if they’re not!

healthunlocked.com/bridgeto...

Congrats on the increased fitness showing up in Zumba. As a fellow enthusiast, I know how good that feels!! Be super proud of that and all you’ve achieved so far!

[Heti Graduate in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Heartfelt thanks MissUnderstanding. I’m so glad to read about your advice which I’ll take on board. A change is as good as a rest! Happy Easter 🐣💚

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate in reply to Heti]

Happy Easter to you too! I’ve been packing in the hot cross buns and trying not to eat the Easter egg I’ve bought for my husband…

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Slow and steady... and take the great advice from our lovely Annieapple ... rest up and come back stronger!

[Heti Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Thank you Oldfloss. I will listen! 💚🙏

[Lentlily Graduate]

Happy Easter Heti, I don't have any advice except that I know dedication to doing things slowly, well & to your own satisfaction is what got you through before. I found that so inspiring when I was struggling a bit with the 25 min runs. Sounds like you are feeling loads of benefits of improved fitness else where so it must be worth the effort! Mixing it up and trying new things sounds like sound advice to which I would add ..... eat loads of chocolate!

[Heti Graduate in reply to Lentlily]

Thanks Lentlily. I’ll take my time and find runs that suit me. My Lindt Salted Caramel Gold Bunny has been hidden from me for 4 days but today we’ll have a fond reunion!! 🐣🙏💚

[Lentlily Graduate in reply to Heti]

Good choice - I also have Lindt salted caramel but in egg form, enjoy!

[Maggie-Moo Graduate]

Happy Easter 🐣 you are doing fab! I’m also finding the extra time quite testing! Today I tackled a hill! Just a small one but it was still a hill! I’ve managed to run 🏃‍♀️ a couple of outside 5km runs. It’s just taken time and patience. I agree with the others maybe try a couple of shorter runs rather than going out dreading 35 minutes! Good luck. 😉

[Heti Graduate in reply to Maggie-Moo]

Thank you Maggie-Moo. I’ll try shorter runs to build up confidence! 🐣🙏💚

[Maggie-Moo Graduate]

Try the speed one but don’t increase your speed by much. It’s under 20 minutes. 😀🏃‍♀️x