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Original poster

C25K: Body is willing, but fitness is shite!

58 replies

TeamEponine · 03/07/2018 05:40

I've started c25k and am just about to start week three. I'm having a bit of an issue in that my body can take it, I don't have any pain and I feel like my body wants to run faster, but I'm horribly unfit. I just feel like collapsing!

Anyone experience similar or have any tips? It's so frustrating holding back so much!

Ta!

OP posts:
FATEdestiny · 08/07/2018 11:56

Hello TeamEponine, there's a username I recognise Grin

I graduated from C25K a few months back, having decided that now my youngest started nursery I will use the 3h a day free time I have to get fit and healthy!

As everyone had said above, trust the program and your fitness will build in time.

It's also worth knowing that experienced runners will always find the first 20 minutes or so of a run hardest - that's when the huffing and puffing happen. After the first few KM, you find your stride and run much more easily and relaxed. So don't beat yourself up about psychologically struggling, it's because you're so early into your run and it's normal.

I do three 10K runs a week now and always find the second 5k easier to run than the first 5k. Just know it's mostly in your mind and push through. You can do this 💪

thurmanmerman · 06/07/2018 15:08

Ooh @EmmaStone I do that as well with breathing - like 1-2-3 in-in-out in-in-out?

thurmanmerman · 06/07/2018 15:07

@TeamEponine it takes a while for your heart and lungs to catch up with your legs so don't worry - stick at it!
Every time I have time off running for injury I am really puffing and blowing on my first few runs back.

Well done you! Flowers

slowrun · 06/07/2018 15:04

Team, great you've finished week 3! As everyone says just keep going. I always tell myself doing something is better than nothing. It all adds up and you do see progress over time. Smile

Original poster
TeamEponine · 06/07/2018 13:15

Thanks all. I guess I just need to keep going! Finished week three this morning and I'm feeling stupidly pleased with myself Grin

slowrun - I actually read your thread when preparing to start C25K, so I'm already trying the Niko Niko technique, although I'm not sure how well I'm doing it.

OP posts:
EmmaStone · 03/07/2018 13:55

Agree with above, just keep going, stick to the programme. Is it your breathing that's the problem? If so, slow down, and try to time your breaths with your strides (I tend to breathe in for 2 and out for 3. Ish).

slowrun · 03/07/2018 09:29

You could try Niko Niko running technique. I started a thread on it here:

www.mumsnet.com/Talk/exercise/3273109-niko-niko-running-technique-experiences

Basically, with Niko Niko you pay attention to running form and pace. It makes running much easier. I went from a total non runner to being able to run approx for half an hour or longer (didn't push myself) on trying this. You can do it in conjunction with C25K if you wish.

AuntieStella · 03/07/2018 08:29

Well done on progress so far! Especially in the heat.

This is where you really need to stick to the programme. Don't be tempted to leap ahead or do more. It's designed to be iterative and build your fitness over the weeks. Just stick with it - I did it nearly 2 years ago and it changed my life.