Tips for week 6 onwards?

[katywoo]

Week 6 is looming, feeling a bit apprehensive that from now on every run will be 20 mins + non stop....eeeeek! Has anyone got any tips for moving into week 6 and onwards? How did you find it?

[Cazvs Graduate]

I've just finished week 6 so have done a couple of 20 min+ runs. At this stage it is ALL psychological. You've done plenty of physical preparation so you can definitely do it physically.

You might have moments during the run where you'll think 'I can't do this'. Don't listen!! You absolutely can. It is mind over matter. If I find myself struggling, I make sure I look up and keep my head up and maybe think about something else, tune out a bit.

Also make sure you keep a steady pace- don't worry about how far you go, speed isn't important yet. Get hydrated and have something to eat (not right before you run).

Good luck, you'll be amazed what you can do and it will fill you with confidence once you get to the end of the 20+ mins

[shelleymcb Graduate]

slow & steady is the way to go from here onwards. try not to start too fast or you will run out of puff.

& if you find the first run of this week difficult after accomplishing 20mins then dont worry. some find it difficult, some just breeze through. personally I find intervals hard as once in my stride I dont like to stop & start up again (need about 5 mins to settle into my rythm).

relish in the thought that now you can run 20mins anything is possible & keep telling yourself that if you start hearing those running demons. 20mins is an amazing milestone & you should be really proud of yourself you are more than half way through & graduation is getting closer.

good luck with the rest of the plan. x

[Anniemurph Graduate]

Definitely slow and steady - if you're struggling, slow down. Also, I have recently discovered that when I am tired or struggling, I tense my shoulders up. Deliberately relaxing them makes a world of difference to my ability to run. If you're finding it hard, do a quick check to find out if you are tensing any muscles anywhere - oh, and remember to breathe deeply occasionally! All the best with it - let us know how you get on.

Annie

[Oldgirl Graduate]

Yep agree 100%, slow and steady. It takes most of us at least 5 minutes of running to get into a comfortable stride so taking it steady is good. Once your going at a comfortable pace you can then adjust your speed according to your ability and also the terrain. Good luck