Is this to be expected?

I am on the wrong side of 40 and after a decade of little exercise (I had 3 children) I took up running early August. I finished the couch to 5k in 8 weeks and was thrilled and feel so much better. I run on mountainous roads and thought I was really pushing myself. I run 5-6 times a week (5kms), then walk another 5kms after the run. I still find it a struggle to do the 5kms especially at the beginning of the run. I really thought it would be much easier at this stage and although I love it I am disheartened as I was hoping to up the distance by this stage. I would appreciate any advice or similar stories from people in my situation. Many thanks

bettycat wrote (see)

I am on the wrong side of 40

You mean you're in your 30s?

One thing to remember is that it takes the body a while to get the oxygen transport fully working, it can take a mile or two sometimes. Until its up and running properly it's common for it to feel hard. You might even feel it suddenly clicking which is what we call getting 'second wind'. If that takes 2 miles and you're only doing 3 it doesn't leave much of the run to enjoy! Also if you live in undulating territory make sure you don't run uphill during the warming up phase of the run unless it's unavoidable.

Joe (49)

I think you need to move on a bit now, you're on a plateau. Try running a bit further once or twice a week.  If it is seriously hilly where you are, don't be afraid to walk up a few hills on a longer run.  Or go somwhere a bit flatter, perhapsa canal bank and run 5k out and 5k back, see how you feel.

Puffy (51)

I would try a Bridge to 10k training plan so that you can structure your training. Here is an example of one but don't be afraid to run and walk to build up the distance.

i alwaysw hate the first mile of my run.and then it usually gets easier.........i think yoiu also need a new focus to stir things up a bit.good luck