C210K distance or time goals?

MisMolly

Hi everyone!
I was looking for some input on whether to focus on time or distance as I advance through a couch to 10 k program. I am in the 8th week of the program and am running 28 min without stopping, but the program states "run 28 min or 2.75 miles without stopping" this week. So far I have just ran the timed intervals as the app instructs, with focus on just keeping moving at a pace that felt OK, slowing down if I felt like I was struggling, but not really keeping track of my mile times or distance covered. Today, I used another app to see if I was near the prescribed mileage, and found that I was doing a little over an 11 min/ mile and the app seems expect that you are running about 10 min/mile. What advice would you give in this situation? Should I put emphasis on decreasing my time/ mile at this point? Or keep running for time and focus on speed later? Would it be beneficial to backtrack in the program and try to focus on running faster for shorter distances? My goals is to run a 1/2 marathon early next summer and most of all avoid injury.
Molly

Purplebunnysarah

I didn't start running for distance until I finished B210K, but it's really personal choice I think. My current training plan is distance based and I transitioned just fine. I'm doing a 15K training plan until Christmas, then starting half marathon training in the new year with a race April 7.

spiriteagle99

When I did c25k I had the same issue. Not many brand new runners actually run 10 minute miles. Some are faster, most are slower, sometimes much slower. I chose the option that made me work harder - so I went for distance rather than time. I wanted to finish the program able to run the distance.

jcummings6

I started with a C25K and that was based off time when I completed that I started training for a 10 mile race and the training program was based around mileage. I felt that by focusing on distances it made me want to run a little faster (so I could get it over with lol). The more mileage I do, the faster I’ve been getting. You have plenty of time to train for a half marathon. My suggestion....continue the way you have been until you finish the program and then start gradually working on increasing your weekly mileage, go slow. If you’re not running 4 days a week add a shorter run but a 4th day in and do some leg strengthen. Take it easy and just gradually build up. Check out Hal Higdon training programs when you start your half marathon training. Good luck!

ContraryMaryMary

Slowly, slowly. The number one mistake beginner runners make (or those returning to it) is to go too fast too soon. You risk injury. Best to run at a slow comfortable pace, speed will come with time. Keep up the good work.

MisMolly

Thanks for all your advice! I really appreciate it.