W5R3 - The build up is always worse than the run

[StoneDragon]

Hi runners,

This run always seems like such a hurdle and big jump up from the previous runs and I think that's why we all dread it so much.

I've obviously done it before (this is my third time on the C2K5 plan - after graduating in 2020 and 2021), and that helped me prepare but it's still a scary thought, running for 20 minutes, when we've only managed 8 before.

It really is much more of a mental hurdle than a physical one and I'm pleased to say I'm just back from completing the run.

The first few minutes were a little tough but then I seemed to settle in (knowing I was only a fraction of the way in) and then I actually quite enjoyed it. 😀💪 Lovely autumnal lunchtime run too.

I remember week 6 being weird (back to intervals) but looking forward carrying on with the plan. I still have the remnants of a cold so might take an extra rest day but I'm raring to go once again.

Have a great weekend all - happy running. SD

[Jericho2332 Graduate]

Great stuff! Well done 👍🏻 couldn't get myself motivated today but il be out in the morning after reading this.

[StoneDragon Graduate in reply to Jericho2332]

Thanks man, appreciate the encouragement and if I've motivated you to get out there tomorrow too, even better 👍 Hopefully the weather is still good for you tomorrow as it looks like it's on the change 🌧️❄️

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Take that extra rest day...the runs will wait and be all the sweeter!

Huge well done you.... you left those gremlins reeling! x

[StoneDragon Graduate]

Thanks Oldfloss - lovely to see you again and for the virtual high five.

Yep those gremlins were KO'd today 😀👊👺

[LauraRuns Graduate]

Waheeey! Congrats on getting the 20min run done StoneDragon you’re really smashing it, especially given you’ve been feeling under the weather!! You’re absolutely right about it being a mental battle. Have a great rest of your weekend and wishing you lots of easy gazelle running moments into week 6 🦌🏃‍♂️✅

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Good post and run for you StoneDragon, no one needs to be scared about that run 3 of week 5, the program has prepared you for it, I must admit the night before I ran it I didn't sleep much worrying about it, however, once I started running I completed it with no problems whatsoever, have a wonderful weekend 👍 ✔️🏃🏾

[John_W Graduate]

W5R3 is the most misunderstood run in the program and it's understandable given how it's laid out.

If people looked at the TOTAL amount of running time, which is a very important component to building fitness, then W5R3 would be seen as a relatively modest increase from 16 to 20 minutes.

Well done and crack on.