Week 8 Runs

[drl212]

Has anyone else felt this Week 8 runs to be more difficult than the ones before?

I'm wondering if it might have to do with all of the pollen in the air from the flowering trees possibly affecting my breathing - although these allergies really haven't been bothersome in quite some time.

I'm also running on the day after a very long day's work.

My toxic ten yesterday seemed to be the worst I've had yet. The thought came to me that I might want to stop and reschedule.

Finished the runs both times and will be heading out again tomorrow, but I'm just curious as I didn't think those additional three minutes would affect me so...

Looking forward to Week 9...

[MissUnderstanding Administrator On a break Graduate]

For me, it was week 7. Every run seemed to be exhausting. It’s a long programme and sometimes I think it would be better if it included a lighter week for some extra recovery time. It could absolutely be the pollen though-my hay fever is a nightmare at the moment.

You could add in your own drop down week if you think it might help. Do three runs but shorter, or take some extra rest days. I’ve done this with every programme I’ve followed since couch to 5k and I’ve found it really helpful:

It’s up to you-the programme is meant to be helpful rather that set in stone and you can absolutely adjust it to how you’re feeling. That’s not a sign of being a worse runner than you were last week when you were less tired-it’s a sign of someone being a good coach to them self!

[drl212 Graduate in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Thanks very much!! Let's see what happens tomorrow. Hopefully, third time will be a charm...!!

[Jools2020 Graduate]

There could be a number of reasons why you’re finding week 8 more difficult, but you mentioned Toxic 10. I have this quite badly and it dents my confidence. For me, the best way to minimise it is to have a longer warm up. 5 minutes of walking and slow jogging. Then another 5 minutes of slow jogging and slightly faster running. Pause and do a few more stretches and running on the spot. Then start your scheduled run. I also pop something sweet in my mouth like a jelly baby as I start. I can’t remember the explanation as to why this would help 🤣

This definitely helps the start of my runs! I also wonder if a little of it is psychological? I’m plagued with doubts as to whether I’ll be able to do the run. Then I go on and run for 10K or do a superb set of intervals - so the worrying is unfounded.

[drl212 Graduate in reply to Jools2020]

Thanks for the tips...I did my Week 9 Run 1 and increased the speed on my brisk walk and that seemed to help a bit...

[Jools2020 Graduate in reply to drl212]

I would recommend an extra warm up, before the usual 5 minute warm up walk on the C25K program itself.