Training for a 5K

AlexiaANDRobert · March 2010

So, I signed up for a 5K at our Church in 2 weeks. I didn't hesitate because I won't be embarrassed when I end up walking most of it.

I'm in no means able to run 3 miles, but I feel like since I signed up, I'm committed so I'll start walking/jogging.

I printed the Couch to 5K program and we're starting tonight. I semi-started this weekend, but not really.

Any tips or pointers? Good stretches? Ways to get through the day of?

zippityb · March 2010

The treadmill at my gym has a 5k program on it. If you have access to one, it might be good to try it out to see how long it really is.

L-Bride · March 2010

My biggest piece of advice is to run through cramps. You won't make any progress if you stop every time you get crampy.

[Deleted User] · March 2010

I am almost through the couch to 5K program and I love it. Somehow it's much easier to run when I feel like I can't when I'm following a schedule vs me just winging it. I think the schedule increases your running at a good pace too, I can definitely see improvement.

Brie2010 · March 2010

Get fitted for shoes! Go to a running store (not a chain, should be a small/independently owned place) and they will watch you run and walk and help you pick a shoe that is appropriate for you. It makes SUCH a huge difference and can save you tons of problems with your feet/ankles/knees/hips/back. Seriously worth every penny!

mandysmear · March 2010

Breathe efficiently, drink a lot of water before a run and get plenty of sleep.

Last week I only got 6 hours of sleep and barely drank 1L of water, I had the worst run yet.

Yesterday I drank 3L (or more, i lost track), concentrated on my breathing (make sure you belly breathe... if you're not a belly breather than you ahve to really focus on it. i ran with my hands on my stomach to make sure i could feel it going out.. .haha!), and got 8 hours sunday night. I had the BEST run yet!

Don't do too much too fast or you'll injur yourself.

That's all I've learned from my running class so far. Both from guest speakers and from my own experience

Good luck!! Have fun!!

Stackeye210 · March 2010

Brie - that is great advice! We decided that we're both getting fitted running shoes with our tax return and I can't wait! I feel every joint in my body when I run on our gyms cheap a$$ treadmills.

COkristi · March 2010

Don't start out too fast. It's really easy to start out too fast when running in a race or with a group, in my experience. I'm a pretty slow runner though. It gets easier after the first mile or so, so pace yourself and stick with it. The C25k is a great program!

noelle24 · March 2010

I'm just over halfway through C25K right now. It definitely helped me to start slow. You should be able to have a conversation with a running partner while jogging. If you can't, you're running too fast.

All in all, I really like this program. I feel like it's progressed slowly enough that I can actually imagine doing a 5k soon, and actually enjoying it.

hayleymajayley · March 2010

Run outside instead of on a treadmill if you can. It's more challenging and works more muscles. You'll be more prepared on the day of the 5k. Good luck!

AlexiaANDRobert · March 2010

Aww! Thanks gals! You rock!

I'll let you know how it goes.

And I like the tax return idea for new sneakers. We're BOTH in need!

Disclaimer - I'm in no way saying that I'll be ready for this 5K in 2 weeks, just think it'll give me something to work towards!

TurtlesAllTheWayDown · March 2010

Good socks and shoes are a must!

Also, stretch AFTER you run, not before.

reddy123 · March 2010

In Response to <a href="http://forums.theknot.com/Sites/theknot/Pages/Main.aspx/wedding-boards_etiquette_training-5k?plckFindPostKey=Cat:Wedding%20BoardsForum:9Discussion:75a141e2-40a5-4502-a589-d9ea9791f356Post:8af182cd-adff-499c-9e08-d9dcaa0b48d5">Re: Training for a 5K</a>:
[QUOTE]<strong>Breathe efficiently, drink a lot of water before a run and get plenty of sleep. </strong>
Posted by mandysmear[/QUOTE]

<div>THIS. And eat a good balanced meal or two.
<div>
</div></div>

smokeybailey · March 2010

Run/walk. It's the best way. If you are training in 2 weeks, then get straight to the 3 miles.

Run for one minute and then walk for two minutes. Do this for 3.1 miles. On the day of you will probably be able to run more at the end so you can sprint to the finish line when you see it.

Couch to 5K is a 9 week program so you need to start at week 7. However, that program is really to get you to run the entire 3 miles. Don't try to focus on running the whole distance. I have used run/walk in a marathon so it will work here as well.

GL.

ThePinkSuperhero · March 2010

I did Coach to 5k, and it totally works! I couldn't believe it, by the end of the training, I was a runner! Shame I gave it up, now I never run anymore lol

mandysmear · March 2010

Yes, I have been told by many many runners to take walk breaks. Every 10 minutes for 1 minute.

Training for a 5K

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