Week 2 Completed, but may need to repeat due to shift patterns.

[KTMACNESS]

Has anyone else had this problem? I'm pretty conservative when it comes to bedtimes and getting enough sleep etc. I'm due to start week 3 today but I started work at 7am and am due to finish at 8.30pm, I'm also working the same shift tomorrow and am really worried if I go for a run after work tonight I will be too "wired" to sleep.

Has anyone else had this problem of sleep pattern/shift cycle?

Any tips for me to relax and get into sleep mode quickly when I get home?

The last thing I want to do is not train for the next two days and have to repeat a week.

KT x

[AnnaDJ Graduate]

I wouldn't worry too much. It's only 2 days which is your usual 1 day rest plus 1. If you follow a 3 runs in 7 day week pattern you would have 2 consecutive rest days anyway. It can be scary taking that extra day, but actually you might find you come back feeling stronger for it. I'm always surprised how much further I can run if I've taken the extra. Mind you I'm only in week 6 so what do I know, lol. Seriously though you will be fine and you won't lose your motivation in one day.

[KTMACNESS Graduate in reply to AnnaDJ]

Yes I suppose it is! Two days just feels so long if your really getting into something. At least I'll come back after my shift with fresh legs and lot's of running stamina. I think you hit the nail on the head... Motivation! With so many other fitness pursuits that I've taken up over the years choosing to not do it meant that I "couldn't be bothered", but with this I'm taking the day off because I can be bothered with my running and want to improve... Really strange mindset to get into!

[AliB1 Graduate]

Have to say I've always done 3 runs (or less at the mo) in 7 days so at least once a week have a 2 day rest period. It's all about fitting this into your 'real' life and shifts won't help. I wouldn't stress about taking the odd extra day rest if required if you've got a couple of long shifts. You don't have to repeat weeks if you have extra rest days...the good thing about the programme is you can make it fit your life.

I to like getting to bed at a reasonable time as up just before 6 everyday but when I run in the evening (like tonights run club) by the time I get back it's 9.30 and i'm wide awake so it's always a later night for me.

[KTMACNESS Graduate in reply to AliB1]

All the literature seems to suggest that you have to incorporate running into your routine... If the routine is work (and I'm sure as hell not going to run on my break as there's no facilities to shower etc) then running needs to fit AROUND your routine. I think I was just feeling a bit guilty because I was choosing sleep instead of a run, but sleep will have big health benefits too. Hope run club went well!