I'm a total newcomer to running, so know nothing!! But I'm just wondering whether you just need a rest from running for several days or maybe a week. Alternatively, perhaps you need to start mixing things up with a bit of cross-training.

As I've said I'm a new runner. But taking some time out/mixing things up often works for me when I have the feelings you're describing with regard to other things in my life.

All the best.

Hi,
Well, i'm new to this site, and new to running. I have been running now for 3 weeks, running every other day, and am currently managing just over 5k on every run, ( have just increased this since tues this week). My goal is to run 10k in May. My plan is to run the same for two weeks then increase the distance, until i can manage the 10k.
I have been able to run the just under the 5k in 30 mins and since my increase to just over 5k my time has gone to 40 mins, although today i managed it a bit under the 40 mins.
Is this the correct way to do this, i hope to be able to run the 10k in 1hr to 1hr and 30mins.
I tend to start my running at a good steady pace, and then do several (what i call) hard runs, then slow down just a little until i get to my turning point, and then on my run back i then start to pace myself out a bit and step it up to a faster pace so that when i get home my heart rate it up and i feel that i have had a good run, but not Knackered.
Any advise welcome, i love this and the feeling i get after every run is amazing.
I started running to get a bit of ME TIME back, and dont want to do anything to risk my health or my personal TIME away from the kids and ironing!!!! LOL. xx

Thanks Lozzer and westie. I think your right I have been thinking about introducing some swimming or cycling as sometimes the thought of trying schedule in a good 1hr30 run can put me off. So like you say maybe mixing it up will help me regain focus. Thanks for the welcome too x.
sj001 - good for you girl keep it up. Thats how I started and kept going just really enjoyed proving to myself I could do this. trouble is it gets adictive and the goals get bigger!!!

sj100 started this thread!

Bernie Bear
No not all long runs. Iam getting minimum 3 runs in. something like Monday 5 Miles, Wednesday 7 - 8 Miles Then Sunday 10-12 Miles. Due to weather and dark nights (I don't like running on my own at night) I have done a lot on treadmill, then ran the longer runs on the road. Time constraints and route planning have held things up the last week or so and as we get nearer panic sets in that I won't be ready for the race. Anyway I maybe able to get a few more runs in this week and next.
So hopefully will get the miles in.

Hi SJ,

I'd suggest as an alternative to your regular 5k, try doing 3k, but really go for speed (you've got a 28 min 5k, so target 16 min for 3k - I know it's a big ask, but don't be shy of pushing yourself), or as another "push yourself", about 750m SLOW jog, then 6x200m in 1 minute each, with 200m slow recovery jog between, then 750m back home. As you get fitter, increase the number of repetitions. Lamp-posts are about 40m between (at least out our way!), so you start at one lamp-post, count 5, and stop.

Hi Marymini

Without trying to delve too deep, what about other things that are going on in your life. I normally find that they can affect my training / running. Work / family issues etc.
Although saying that, quite often running is a welcome relief from everyday troubles.

But as everyone else has said, variety is key, even running the same routes but the other way round.

I'm sure the mojo will be back before you know it.

Hi B-Bear,

Thanks for the advice, unfortunately today i was going to start my first fast short run, but.....the weather here is on /off snow blizzards so that has stopped me. (Only have a 1hr window before collecting kids from school), first day that ive not managed a run, bit disappointed........
Sadly not sure what to do with myself......was there life before running!!!!!!

Well again thanks for the advice, please keep it coming....xx

This has been a really good thread to read. Very informative! (in the same boat as sj001)

Thank you everyone for sharing the knowledge!

Hi sj001

I'm no expert but it sounds to me like the fast run is quite a bit different to your usual run. If this is the case, it is probably a bit like being a beginner again - the difference between walking and jogging/slower running still feels huge to the first timer and injuries, aches etc are a normal part of that. The whole breathing, stitch and soreness is a common complaint of beginners and I am guessing you qualify as a beginner at the level you are now trying to achieve. Give yourself time, don't push it too hard, etc. Think of yourself as a beginner again and treat yourself as such too.

Well done.