C25K - week three starting tonight

Wish me luck, this is as far as I've ever gotten on the program. Running isn't my thing, but I needed to mix it up so I started the Couch25K after the Boston marathon. For some reason, 3 minutes seems like a lifetime when running - any tips? Treadmill running is better for me than outside, weird, I know. TIA for any advice how to keep my mind off the clock!

Re: C25K - week three starting tonight

I find listening to music helps me run. Or watching tv when I'm on the treadmill.

I did the C25K and finished it last fall.....when I started, 3 minutes seemed like forever also! Now...I can run for 30 minutes straight without collapsing on the treadmill! Stick to it!! You can do it!!

Re: C25K - week three starting tonight

I agree about music, I blast mine in my ears. I make sure it's upbeat and fun and wind up jogging faster than normal. It makes it harder to get distracted and obsess about how heavy I'm breathing.

When I'm about to give up and walk, I ask myself - what feels SO BAD that I can't keep going? Is it my breathing? I'm not about to pass out from lack of oxygen, that's crazy. My heart beating fast? So what! Every beat is bringing me closer to better health and fitness. My legs? I'm not in constant pain, crippling myself. Every stride makes them look better when I wear skirts and shorts.

I don't like the reasoning part of it so instead I try to distract myself. You say treadmill running is better for you right now but it's not as challenging or as rewarding as being outside on the road. There's more to look at to distract you too. I always do better outdoors than on the treadmill.

Re: C25K - week three starting tonight

music like the others said
did it at the gym with my husband on the treadmill next to me.
slowed down to a speed i was still running and could handle.

Re: C25K - week three starting tonight

Thanks for all the advice! I forgot my headphones, but it is a short workout, I think just 23 minutes, so I got through it. I will definitely be bringing the headphones tonight for day 2 of week 3! It is all mental, isn't it. If I can just stay out of my head, I should get through it just fine! Thanks for the support!