Why is it getting hard to run?

lklein

So I started out my running with the C25K program and once I finished it, I started running outside for 5 miles 2-3 times a week. Well the first few times I did this it was a breeze and I really didn’t struggle, but now it seems like the same 5 mile stretch is getting harder to do. (I've been doing the 5 miles since the beginning of April) Any suggestions on why this might be?

UpEarly

Is the weather getting a lot warmer in your area? When it gets hotter and more humid, I always find my outdoor workouts to be tougher. It takes me a while to adjust to the warmer temps.

Jdhenson

Maybe you could map out several 5 mile stretches. I find I have to go to different areas to change it up or it seems to drag on and actually physically feels harder to finish. A change of scenery can make a world of difference.

pmorrison101

Maybe you are running at a faster pace so it seems harder to do...but you are really pushing yourself more which makes it harder.

mcboyd1983

are you running 7 days a week? you need to give your body a day or two of rest (from running at least). You can always change up your workouts on your two days off from running and do some strength training or something.

vim_n_vigor

Make sure you are getting enough carbs, have a day of rest, and have multiple routes to run to keep it interesting.

Beebs33

My knee is my reason why my running gets harder. It gets stiff and sometimes I don't even realize it at first. Also, are you running the same path? Maybe your body is tired and is telling you to take a day off. Mine has done that to me a few times.

hroush

It seems to happen for this to be true, but it's another possibility, maybe your body is getting used to that same 5 miles and you're starting to regress. Are you keeping track of times?

lklein

I am only running 2-3 times a week so I am resting up inbetween runs. My time is getting better by a few minutes each time, so I might be running fast? I am running the same path, so maybe I just need to mix it up a bit and run a different route. Thanks for the suggestions.

hroush

I am only running 2-3 times a week so I am resting up inbetween runs. My time is getting better by a few minutes each time, so I might be running fast? I am running the same path, so maybe I just need to mix it up a bit and run a different route. Thanks for the suggestions.

Your time is getter better, so you are going faster, so yes, it should be harder. I agree that you should find a couple routes, it will help prevent boredom with the same route.

MisdemeanorM

Are you eating well and enough? I swim a mile+ twice a week (among other things). Last week I ate crap - I think I ate only rice krispee treats and Captain D's the day before my 2nd mile. I almost died. I felt like I do at the end about 3 minutes in. I ate well that day and was feeling fine in spin class the next day. In the past also I was set to 1200 cals plus eating my exercise calories. I started well but burnt out. I upped to 1500 plus my exercise cals and got my energy back.

bbush18

i suggest switching up your route and prob not just doing a distance run. maybe run for a shorter distance and incorporate some speed intervals. switch up your music, that usually helps me.