How bad is week 5 run 3? It seems an enourmous jump from W5R2. Why go to 20 mins continous then back to 5 and 8 mins in W6R1?Seems odd?

[greatvalley]

[Elizadolots Graduate]

Hi, I think everyone is concerned about that run! I asked the same question a couple of weeks ago, got told that it is easier than you might think. Trust the training, it is really not that bad.

I think they go back to running/walking to build up stamina and endurance, as you say the 20 minutes is a big jump. Good luck, you'll be fine!

[arita]

It is hard and I could not finish in my first attempt but I tried again two days later and managed to complete it. It is not easy and I did week 6 run 1 yesterday and was quite hard as well.

[mollysmum]

I did this run last night and was very surprised that I actually completed it. I too was worried about it and felt it was a jump in time. But I'm very pleased with myself. Listen to Laura and you will be fine. Good luck

[motheroffour Graduate]

It is a big jump but I think it's more about pushing yourself through a pyschological barrier at that stage. I found after the 20 min run that I was able to tackle hills on the next shorter ones which really boosted my confidence.

Good luck!

[DontBeBlueBeARainbow Graduate]

For me it was quite reassuring on the lead up to W5R3 and during the run, that once I'd done it, that was it, I was back to intervals. Of course it's only 2 more run with intervals, but I think it helps you get through it. They say at that point your body is ready for longer runs so it gives your mind a chance to catch up.

For me that was probably the worst run because I spent the whole 20 minutes telling myself I couldn't do it and how painful it was - couldn't distract myself at all! My body was ready and completed it Now just one run till graduation!!!

[greatvalley Graduate]

Thanks to everyone for your replies, it would appear that I am not alone in my initial shock at this run. I am scheduled to do it tomorrow, fingers crossed.!!

[dmbell]

I put this run off for at least a week as i just hit a mental block. When I finally did it it wasnt as bad as I feared (it was still hard) but when i finished it felt AMAZING! I had a huge grin on my face for my 5 min cool down walk and went home and gave my husband a big sweaty hug.

[Hidden]

Good luck - it really is a psychological thing as the programme has built you up to it physically. And the smug factor on finishing is worth its weight in gold. I so doubted myself but made the run no problem at all.