Is there such a thing as too slow?

[Flaggingrunner]

I graduated 4 years ago and got out of the habit. I recently decided to put my running shoes on again and am starting off again from week 1 run 1. I am taking it VERY slowly on the treadmill but am really enjoying it. Question is, will I get any fitness benefits if I take it slowly until I get my confidence and stamina back?

[SueAppleRun Graduate]

No there isn't such a thing as too slow, and by the end of the programme you will be fitter and may find your slow is a little bit faster, I did 😁

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Short answer... nope !

Slow works... especially but not solely, on a come back... Your runs, your pace... we do what is right for us and my mantra, after nearly ten years... slow and steady!

Maybe my slow has evolved over the years,,, but, it is still my comfy pace... You know, this programme is about progress... and learning... and of course... enjoyment... and as SueAppleRun says... as the weeks move on and then the months move on.. you may be very surprised !

Good to have you back !

[Flaggingrunner Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Good to be back Oldfloss and thanks for the words of wisdom xx

[GoogleMe Graduate]

There had better not be 'too slow' or I'm stuffed! What's the alternative I wonder? Not getting confidence and stamina back?

Treadmills are great in certain situations but inevitably you have to think about pace in a way you don't necessarily have to if you are outside (and certainly don't have to doing C25K outside). So if you have the option to run outdoors, it is worth taking (all that Vitamin D for another thing!)

[drl212 Graduate]

Go at whatever slow pace you like. It's all yours to decide. I was very, very slow when I started C25K. Take it easy and you'll start feeling the benefits soon!!

Best...

[MintT Graduate]

I hope not! I’ve found strength, stamina and overall fitness returns the more you engage with the process. Keep engaging and everything will improve

[JeremiahObadiah Graduate]

Slow is good news. You can be patient and rebuild yourself gradually. You won’t pick up injuries or strains along the way.

Hopefully slow means the habit will stick and you will be able to keep running at your pace for as long as you are happy to run.

Good running to you.

[Flaggingrunner Graduate in reply to JeremiahObadiah]

Thanks Jeremiah, wise words.

[Jancanrunagain Graduate]

Nope slow is good, slow helps us acclimatise and no one has a bad word to say about slow food! I rest my case -

Fast on the other hand - food equals yucky, fashion equals landfill. Embrace the slow

[Flaggingrunner Graduate in reply to Jancanrunagain]

Love this, thanks Jancanrunagain

[nowster Graduate]

The only requirement is that at some point in your stride both feet should be off the ground. That's what separates speed walking from running.