How to run faster?

[roundbutsound]

I'm 61, VERY overweight but fairly fit (gym, Pilates, cycling, allotment , parkrun etc) I have just started Week 4 of couch 2 5K. I run very slowly, I can actually walk faster when I get tired should I stay on week 4 and try to increase speed or move on up to increase fitness?

[redfacewoman Graduate]

It doesn't matter that your overweight remember it's not you sitting on the couch - run at a comfortable speed for you you'll get faster as time goes on listen to your body not every one else - you need to move on week by week to get the benifit if you find one session too hard then repeat the same session or go back down by one - push that body! there are times when i run i feel totally bushed but by pushing it you'll get there in the end just because it's couch to fivek that doesn't mean you have to complete in nine weeks ! just by getting out there your winning ...WELL DONE

[shelleymcb Graduate]

dont worry about speed just yet. just worry about being at a comfortable pace to finish each run laura asks of you. building stamina is more important than speed. when I finished the plan I couldnt run 5k in the 30mins. still cant & lots of us then use running 5k as our next milestone. my current 5k is around 36mins & Im almost 20years younger than you.

week 4 is a great week, when it all starts to come together. be proud of how far you have come & just concentrate & enjoy each new run.

good luck x

[DeliaItaly Graduate]

Absolutely agree with shelleymcb. Just stick to completing the 9 weeks and then think about speed afterwards! Btw, very well done!

[roundbutsound Graduate]

Thanks for the replies and the encouragement, I'll keep plodding on.