Week 5: Run 2 did not set the stage for Run 3 :(

[RachNJ]

I know there have been a lot of posts about week 5 run 3, and quite frankly, just given the experiences of people who've been there and the fact that I'd come up to every challenge so far, I had no doubt in my mind that I would be able to do it.

But yesterday, Run 2 was not like I expected. The first 8 minute run turned my legs into jelly!! I found it so hard to move them after that, let alone moving them 'briskly'!

I did push myself, recovered my breath and went on to complete the next run as well, but not without a lot of effort!

Now that this was unlike previous experiences, I'm beginning to have serious doubts about run 3. Should I go for it, or repeat run 2 till I am comfortable?

[Grammadog1947 Graduate]

Go for it. You'll be fine. Trust the Force. (lol)

The programme is exquisitely designed. Each run DOES prepare you, physically and mentally, for the next one.

I look forward to reading your "I DID it" post!

Enjoy!

[RachNJ Graduate in reply to Grammadog1947]

Grammadog1947: Wow that is such an inspiring response Thank you!

[New_runner Graduate]

I think u should take a long rest- at least a day or two and then try r3. I found r1 and 2 of w5 v. Difficult as well and was panicking about r3 even while I was doing r1 and 2 but when it came to the 20 min run I suprised myself and so hopefully should u! Even If u don't manage r3 ( although I'm sure u will!) u can always try again.

[happierswimming Graduate]

yes, you can do it! All through the programme, no matter how difficult the last run was, or how slowly you had to complete it, the fact that you did it means you will always be ready for the next. Just slow down as much as you need. I organised my weeks so that run 3 always came after two days' rest as new-runner suggested and that always helped. Go for it!

[miche78 Graduate]

The key is to go slow...it doesn't matter how slow as long as you finish.

[Legion Graduate]

I certainly went slow on runs 2&3 of week 5! Despite being sure, nearly the whole way through, that I couldn't possibly do it, I completed both runs. I reckon week 5 is where the real mental challenge kicks in. Try telling those gremlins to get lost! You CAN do it. You just have to persuade yourself you can.

[Legion Graduate in reply to Legion]

Forgot to say, I very nearly gave up three minutes before the end of the second 8 minutes of W5,R2, and probably would have if my son hadn't been with me pushing me on. It was tough, but I did it, and that is all the preparation you need for W5,R3. Best of luck!

[Run456 Graduate]

Go for it!! I did week 5 run 1 today and was worried about it but it would seem this programme really does make you prepared for each run!!

[RachNJ Graduate]

Thank you all I was inspired to go ahead and do it yesterday despite other appointments... and i'm so happy to say I did it My speed dropped after about 10 minutes but I think I picked up again in the last 2-3 minutes.

I was very nearly in tears at a such a milestone. C25K is simply awesome!!!! Can't thank it and you guys enough.