Science behind the running patterns...

[amsjo]

... just wondered why in week 5 you end on a 20 minute run and then you start week 6 with a 5,8 and 5 minute run? I can see it works ..but why?

Thanks x

[notbad Graduate]

It's a pattern in most training schedules, easing back every now and then before pushing ahead again. I think it's because if you just kept upping the time distance it might tire your body/stress muscles, this way gives you a recovery period, I'm no expert though.

[shelleymcb Graduate]

I always thought it was so that you didnt overdo it after accomplishing a 20 minute run. I felt as if I could do anything after that major milestone & doing too much too quickly can easily end in injury. also this plan doesnt always follow the 10% rule that seems to go with running whereby you only increase your speed OR distance by 10% each week.

good luck with the rest of the plan. shelley x

[amsjo Graduate]

Thanks for the replies ... it makes sense, and as you said Shelley you do feel invincible after your 1st 20 minutes ... so it is probably a good thing to keep me on track.

One thing that I have found really good is that I can move the next day... all other exercise has left me in pain the day after ... this doesn't seem to ...at least not yet