Week 1 run 3 completed..................

[cutecub79]

Just finished the 3rd run of week one, so I am now able to step it up a bit to week 2, but I don't feel ready!? Should I just go for it, or is it OK to repeat the first week again, I just done feel fit enough to go to the second week yet

[parkbirdy Graduate]

Keep going - you'll be alright. It's not a massive step up to week two and you've done the hardest bit which is beginning.

You could give yourself 2 or 3 rest days inbetween and just do a bit of walking then give week 2 a go.

I did repeat some weeks but not until later in the programme when it starts stepping up.

So why not try week 2 and surprise yourself. If you manage it you'll be really chuffed. If you really can't then you can try to repeat week 2.

What might also help is doing some extra warm ups before getting going - even jigging around your kitchen a bit to the radio might help get you ready for that first bit of walk run.

[cutecub79]

Thanks for the quick reply. I feel ok-ish breathing wise, im getting out of puff, but feel I could go on, but have such painful calves, this is what is making me think running longer will be so hard. I will give it a go and see how I get on.

[greenlegs Graduate]

Maybe read up a bit about running form, and running slowly to avoid injury? Taking shorter steps, and landing more softly could make a big difference. (Week 2 podcast encourages you to land on your heels, but from what I've read elsewhere that's more likely to make your calves ache. The only time I've noticed my calves really was when I really pushed myself to do some extra running beyond the times Laura asked for. I've been aiming to land on my forefoot, below my hips, rather than stretching out to land on my heel, and it's worked really well so far.)

[gdeann Graduate]

We made a decision first thing in the program, we would continue on from run to run, regardless how difficult, as long as we completed it. As far as the calf pain, it could be muscle pain from the muscles getting used? If it continues over the next few weeks, maybe it could be your trainers? Ice will also help with the muscle pain. Sending well wishes! Gayle

[mark909 Graduate]

If you don't feel ready yet to move onto the second week then repeat the first week. There's nothing wrong with repeating a week if you don't feel up to it yet. It's better to build up slowly than try to rush into things.

[Maturelady Graduate]

Keep going. I was like you when I started and was surprised when I did week 2 run 1. There is not such a difference and you will feel REALLY pleased with yourself. If you find you can't do it, it is not the end of the world just don't push yourself too hard. Take it easy and good luck. Let us all know how you get on. But TRY IT.

[fatboyslim]

treat it as a guide not a bible , do what you feel happy with , if you repeat , or take longer we won't tell anybody, ( or like "branded" used to be on the telly in the 70's , you have to hand back you trainers in shame). don't forget you have done the difficult bit , got off the settee and put your running gear on, stick with it at your pace. Have fun.

[cutecub79]

Well, I did week 2 first run last night, it was hard, but I did it. I think it was more of a mental block than anything else! Thanks for the support everyone.