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Original poster

realistically how long before i can do 5k

15 replies

choufleur · 18/03/2010 09:52

I started running last months. haven't done it for ages. I'm now doing between 2 1/4 and 2 1/2 (depends on route i run) twice a week. That is still fairly hard work but getting easier. How long do you reckon it will take before i can run 5k? just want to know what i should be aiming for.

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Rollergirl1 · 18/03/2010 11:22

Don't worry about your speed at the moment. Just run at a pace that feels comfortable for you. Why don't you try and add an extra 5 mins to your running time every couple of runs and see how you go?

I started the Couch to 5k and ran my first 5k 3 weeks later but I really pushed myself and had a decent level of fitness to begin with as was swimming 3 times a week.

I've just come back from my run. Did 6.5k in 40 mins. I found upping my distance from 5k quite tough and it was because I was running too fast. Once I slowed my pace I found running that extra bit longer easier and funnily enough it didn't really seem to affect my end time.

Good luck and Happy Running!

Original poster
choufleur · 18/03/2010 11:08

thanks all - think i will try to add on 0.5km every few runs. will soon be up to 5k at that rate.

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BariatricObama · 18/03/2010 11:00

your pace sounds find chouf. at that pace i do think 5k is within your reach.

nowherewoman · 18/03/2010 10:53

I don't know cos I think I'm quite a slow runner and the last time I did 5k in a race for life I did it in 34 mins, so it sounds like you're training at about my "race pace" Just really slow down and see how far you can go.

Original poster
choufleur · 18/03/2010 10:47

Am i running fast/slow/about right do you think? I think you're right if i was running with someone i would keep going.

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nowherewoman · 18/03/2010 10:45

Thought I'd offended you (phew) You're probably right though, when I first did 5k I think I'd only run for about 2-3k previously, but I managed it. I think it depends on the situation though, if you're on your own you're more likely to stop. But if you are in a race, the embarrasment factor will keep you going

BariatricObama · 18/03/2010 10:33

wasn't being sarky, i meant ignore me as other obviously know more than me.

nowherewoman · 18/03/2010 10:22

Sorry?

Original poster
choufleur · 18/03/2010 10:12

I don't think i run particularly fast. I went out this morning and did 2.25K - took 15 mins.

OP posts:
BariatricObama · 18/03/2010 10:08

ok ignore me!

nowherewoman · 18/03/2010 10:07

Couch potato to 5k takes about 10 weeks I think, so you should be able to do 5k in about 4 - 5 weeks max. If you're finding it really hard, you need to slow down. I remember only being able to run for 8 minutes and wondering what was wrong with me. When I slowed it down a bit, I could run for 24 mins!!

BariatricObama · 18/03/2010 10:04

yes you can! if you know you are only going to run 2/3k mentally you prepare fro that and feel exhausted at the end.

do you run quite fast?

thelunar66 · 18/03/2010 10:03

Increase your distance by half a mile every 5 or 6 runs - this is the best way to avoid injury.

That is what the coach at my running club says.

Original poster
choufleur · 18/03/2010 09:59

I think i would collapse and have to be carried home. I want to be able to run the whole way - not walk and run. I really don't think i could run twice as far as i'm doing now.

OP posts:
BariatricObama · 18/03/2010 09:57

you could do it tomorrow if you put your mind to it! honestly have a go

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