Contemplating a 5k?!?!?

shirleygirl1013

Hi, I am thinking about doing my first 5k on March 2nd. Because of the cold weather I plan on doing my training exclusively on a treadmill. I have been exercising on the treadmill 4-5 times a week for the last 7 weeks. I am finally at the point where I can jog at 5.2 for about 30 min with no incline. To all you runners, if I did a 8 week training program do you think I can do it? There is a race I am interested in that is close to me that is on March 2nd but a friend of mine discouraged it because there are some hills and he thinks it would be too hard. I could go check it out and try to run or walk it before. Anyway...any advice would be appreciated? I am willing to do what it takes.

RGv2

Yep, you're fine. I'd say if you're more of a novice runner you should get outside closer to the event, but otherwise you're good.

I was a sub 20min 5K and exclusively trained on the treadmill.

IronSmasher

Do your months go in a different order? Start training now and just do it.

DavPul

it's a 5k. stop contemplating and go sign up

czmmom

You are probably fine. You do need to run outside before the 5k. Running outside and on a treadmill are 2 different things and I had a hard time transitioning.

SoDamnHungry

Sign up. I would train on an incline if you're going to be running up and down hills.

In regards to running outside, I start running outside 2 weeks before the 5k. It takes me 1 or 2 times to get used to it and then I'm at treadmill pace.

jeffrodgers1

Like Nike says.... Just Do It!

A couple of things you will want to do though... go run outside once a week at least. It will get you used to propelling yourself as opposed to having a belt propel you.

If you do have to train on a treadmill, put it at a 1-2% incline to provide a similar workout to what you would have outside. It adds resistance to your run and builds strength as well.

Be careful because 5K's are like the gateway drug of the running world. They lead you to do other awesome feats of endurance like 10K, Half and gasp Full Marathons.

ElliottTN

If I were you I'd bite the bullet and go outside maybe once a week just to gauge yourself. You'll probably be just fine but I have friends who run on treadmills for what they claim is 3-5 miles but get gassed in mile 1 when outside. It's just different I guess.

You should definitely do it, you have enough time to prepare so get after it.

michellekicks

First one? Do it. You're aiming for completion. You'll be fine.

shirleygirl1013

Thanks so much!!! I'm going to sign up!!! I'm only aiming for completion. I will start training and start messing with the inclines. The 5k will be at a park a few miles from my house so I can check it out and person and try running it.

sevsmom

This is a baseline race. You'll see what you're capable of...see if you enjoy racing....and then make future training decisions based on your experience.

And, for the record, when someone tells me something is gonna be "too hard" for me, I deliberately prove them wrong! Prove this "friend" wrong!!!

shirleygirl1013

I agree. I have been working my butt off getting into shape and am willing to do the work. If I am ever going to do it, it will be now. Thanks everyone for the support. I know I have so much farther I need to go but I do need a baseline.