Two days in a row or not?

melizerd

I've recently started the Couch to 5K program. This is my first attempt at running. I've finished week one (and did day 3 twice actually because I was nervous) and I really feel ready to start week two.

I ran yesterday is it okay for me to run/walk today too?

This isn't a new attempt at exercising. I've been walking, using the elliptical machine (my FAVE!) for almost a year now and routinely do 30-45 min of cardio 5 or 6 days a week.

I know the general rule is to work out different muscle groups on different days but I've pretty much only ever done walking/ellpitical which are different from each other but I've done them 5 or 6 days a week routinely and never had a problem or injury. But I'm nervous about this running gig, I actually LIKE it and I never thought I would. I'm not sore today at all from yesterday's workout which surprises me and I didn't slack off either!

So should I do something else today (an easy walk?) or the elliptical or is it okay to listen to my body and go for W2D1?

anjanettecomer

I don't do C25K, but I think the schedule I follow is similar. I run nearly every day with no problems; I don't always take the recommended days off. I say, if you feel like it, go for it!

DiamondRubyMom

Usually when they talk about doing different muscle groups on different days, they mean weight lifting and not cardio. I would say listen to your body. If your not sore I would go for it. It sounds like you've had a good cardio system before and this is only a slight change in style. If you have a day you are really sore then do sometime lighter like a brisk walk or slow elliptical.

mish26

When I did C25K I walked on my off days. In the beginning I ran sometimes too. I was doing it with someone who wasn't in as good of shape, so I felt like a needed more. Once I hit week 5 I only walked on the off days. I would say try it and if it seems like it is too much you can back off a little.

johnwhitent

I agree that it is possible for some to run consecutive days without problems, but not everyone can, at least not initially. I suffered with shin splints when I started running and consecutive running days led to being sidelined for a while - not what I wanted! I was aerobicly fit from cycling but my legs just were not used to and could not handle the pounding. I fell out of the program several times due to the shin splints but I kept coming back. I finally succeded, and now run 5 miles 3/4 times a week, but trying to do too much too quickly could have knocked me out of running if I hadn't been so hard headed. So I recommend take it slow and easy, it is worth the investment!

melizerd

Thanks! It's currently pouring outside so if that keeps up I won't be out there (LOL). If it lets up I think I might go for it. I can take tomorrow off then instead of doing the W2D1 then.

I feel good so I want to push my self some but not injure myself!

aviduser

Definitely. Do it. Walk, run, whatever. If you are feeling up to it, then get out there. I used to have a great rule about running. I could take any day off that I pleased if life offered other opportunities (I was younger then). BUT I could never take 2 days in a row off. It just kept me going. I averaged 6 days a week running.

You will feel a little stiff and sore the day after a run, but once you get warmed up (walk a little to start), you will find the soreness going away.

So, get out there! Rain or shine.

melizerd

Just wanted to say I did it and it felt great! I did it in the rain too! (drizzle) W2D1 was EASIER than W1D1-3