Week 5 run 1

[Anna_8892]

I have decided that I’m going to stop my couch to 5k journey at this run but repeat every run up until week 5. I have a heart condition and I just think knowing my own limits and not pushing beyond them is an essential part of this journey. 😊

[Jancanrunagain Graduate]

there’s probably no one here qualified to say whether you’re doing the right thing but our mantra is to listen to your body and that’s what you’re doing.

Probably well worth you finding out for sure though what is advisable and doable from a medical standpoint. You may find going back to Week 1 or 2 maybe too easy for you now, so some professional advice may mean you could restructure your own plan with the benefit of knowing it’s safe for you

Good luck

[T2runner Graduate]

Take medical advice, you need a professional to say what you are capable of, if you have got this far it would be a shame to start again, which may lose you some of the gains you have made. But with any serious health issues get medical advice.

[Cmoi Graduate]

I'd suggest you get advice from a medical professional re how your heart condition affects your capacity to run.

Is your decision to backtrack because you've been feeling unwell during or after a run? Or is it simply that the runs from week 5 onwards feel intimidating? If the latter, it might reassure you to know that week 4 runs are actually longer than every week 5 run.

[drl212 Graduate]

I agree with the others in that you seek guidance from your medical provider. But if you are cleared to operate at Week 5 and you are happy there, then here’s to you…!!

[OrangeZebra]

I love sensible posts like this. Best of luck Anna!!

[Anna_8892]

Thank you everyone for the solid advice, I’ve been cleared to do all sports just to know my own limits and to listen to my body, I’m going to stay where I am at the minute and then gradually work my way up the weeks but do then over a longer period

[Novicecat]

Hi Anna

I found week 5 was psychological too big a step for me, so instead of doing the 3 different runs, I’ve spent this week doing the first run of week 5. I’ve repeated it 4 times over the week and now feel mentally ready as well as physically ready to do the second run. I’ll do that repeatedly for the next week and see if I then feel ready to try the third run. Good luck with whatever you decide works for you and well done for not giving up. Any exercise is better than non 😊

[Cmoi Graduate in reply to Novicecat]

You might find this FAQ post interesting: healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

You have had the medical advice and have the expert opinion; but you are doing what we alwyas advise, listening to your body and doing what it tells you feels right. Your runs, your way and in your own time.

We will be running with you, and supporting you. Do keep posting please