Running too slowly for C25K

[BlauerEngel]

I started the C25K programme with the Rawbert podcasts two months ago, and to my great surprise - cos I was a real veg beforehand - I have made it through to week 8, running 28 minutes non-stop. It's hard work though, and I have to push myself through most of it.

But it's become clear that I'm not running as far in that time as Rawbert wants me to. Apparently I'm supposed to be managing 2.75 miles, but my pedometer (confirmed by mapometer) thinks I'm only doing 2.25 miles. I'm not too worried about this; I'm still making progress, even if it takes a little longer than the 9 weeks planned. But how should I take it from here? Next week I'll try 3 x 30 mins, but will manage 2.4 miles at the most, I think.

So what should I do in the week after that:

A. Increase the time I run by a few minutes each week, until I get to the magic 3 miles taking 40 minutes or so.

B. Stay at 30 mins max, but gradually try to increase my speed and distance within that time.

I would say don't worry about how fast you are running, you are doing really well to get out there and keep running.

My advice would be just to keep increasing the amount of time you run for on a weekly basis as you feel able and over time you will notice that you naturally get faster.

I used to average about 11.30 minute miles, now I'm down to 10.00 min miles on hilly routes. It's just been a slow progression as my legs get stronger.

Try a bit of both, what ever you're in the mood for/have the time for that day. The variety should also help alleviate boredom.