what exercise should I do on the days between the couch go 5 k runs?

[Inkspellme]

Hi,

I've started the couch to 5k run program and loving it. i was wondering if there was any particular exercise type anyone would recommend for the days I am not meant to be running?

I have a bicycle available if that would be a good option? I really don't like swimming so know I would probably just make excuses not to go!

what I am really hoping to achieve is to tone up, lose weight and just get fitter.

Any suggestions?
TIA

Brisk walking and Pilates are both good options - either of those suit you or fit in with your lifestyle? And yes, I'd have thought cycling would be good too.

Do come and join us on the runners thread!

Thanks - thats helpful. I was concerned that cycling would be unsuitable. I have yet to give pilates a try but will defnitely give it a checkout.

I don't cycle myself but I understand that it's ok to alternate it with running as it doesn't send so much impact through the calf muscles. Swimming is also good. Most people reckon you should have one rest day a week.

Enjoy C25k - you will have a real sense of achievement, I promise!

I have just completed the C25k plan and did various classes at the gym in between runs but I tried to do 1 yoga/Pilate's class a week and then maybe a Combat class.

thanks everyone - trying to pace myself so I don't just do too much and then find myself unable to finish. really want to finish the c25k.

That's sensible, but don't forget that it really isn't the end of the world if you repeat a week - I did and i think it helped in the long run

Also it's hard at the moment because it's hot so do cut yourself some slack for that.

Sorry to hijack but is it generally the idea to do some kind of exercise 6 days a week? So 3 x C25K runs, 3 x something else and then 1 rest day?

I don't know whether you should do extra exercise but with me I would be afraid I would be so enthuastic that I would overdo it and set myself up not to finish the c25k program. so I was looking for something I could do that wouldn't be overdoing it.

Went for a few miles cycle today. tomorrow is week 2 run 2 so we will see in the morning whether I have crammed in too much too soon for a beginner....

If you use the nhs c25k there is a further programme with it called strength and flex which you can use on your rest days. Have a look on the nhs site.

I've just finished the c25k having never ran before in my life.

I have a dog so walk her every day as well I think that's enough!

will look at the strength and flex stuff. I did a 6 mile cycle yesterday. today I did week 2 run 2 and it was hard. my dd did the cycle and the run with me too and found the same. our legs were tired starting on the runs. we did it all anyhow so we are quite proud of ourselves!

looking forward to two rest days now! (might just look at strength and flex on one of them...)

Well done Inkspellme . Keep it up and do come and join us on the Runners thread.

I would focus on resistance training, 30 Day Shred is a good option. Also some yoga once or twice a week would be beneficial.