Suddenly finding running very hard?

[Rhine]

I recently completed the Couch to 5k plan, and have moved on to Couch 5k +. At first I was doing really well, but for the last week or so Ive suddenly started to find it really difficult and am struggling to complete the runs.

I can't understand this as I was doing so well and feel so defeated. Is there anyway I can back on track? I thought of maybe changing my route or running for shorter periods for the time being?

I don't understand it at all?

are you increasing both distance and pace? it needs to be one or the other at any given time

maybe a couple of shorter and/or slower runs might boost your confidence, dial back a bit?

I've been running for years and it never gets any easier!
I have good weeks and bad weeks.

Sometimes a complete break is good, say a week off. When you start again you feel refreshed.

Change of routes is good, maybe join a local club?

I think it does get a bit easier, but over the long term (ie several months of regular & frequent running) and progress is not always linear.

I'd be inclined to slow right down and/or take more walk breaks, experiment with different routes.

agree about routes, I have some that leave me feeling v revved up - eg I like a nice mixed terrain route that includes awkward bumpy grass or mud and finishes on smooth flat road - and some that are always a bit tough

but earlier this year running was suddenly v hard both at the time of the run in terms of perceived effort rating and recovery after it, turned out thyroid was ridiculously overactive so is just a thought but could be worth checking out

Ive cut back on my running time for now and am doing a more interval based plan, I've also changed my route. It feels a bit better, I will hopefully go back to the 30 min runs from next week.