Week 5 Day 1 done. I felt really good during the runs. For the first time I think I barely felt the shin soreness I usually start to feel minutes into my run. Maybe its because I didn't stretch before the workout Either way, I think I'm ready for the 8 minute runs.

I am starting W7D1 today. Finished up W6 on the weekend, and enjoyed the final 25 min run. My ongest run yet and it felt great to be able to run that long without stopping. Amazing to think how far 6 weeks have brougt me.

Decided to go on to w5d1 after all. Felt good. No foot pain and ran early so NSAIDS didn't have a chance to really kick in. Did 4.5 for the runs, 3.5 for the walks. Had signed up for a 5k May 3rd before I got off schedule and want to be able to run as much of this as possible. They close the course at a 16 minute mile - I have been averaging 14 so I think if I can extend the running time I should be able to do it as long as I accept I may have to take walk breaks. Also am worried about transitioning from treadmill to sidewalk. Was going to do it today - but it was only 29 degrees this am.

W7 D2 done! I actually walked 5 minutes at the end and then ran another 6 minutes. It was 65 and sunny today! First day out in short sleeves and no jacket!!!!

w6d3. Done! Another PB (25 minutes without stopping). No more walk breaks from here to the end of the program.

Week 2 is in the bag! It was even (dare I say it??) not very hard today. I'm afraid I have now eternally jinxed myself, but it was smooth going. Bring on week 3!

jb944/Jan - looks like spring around here too! You're doing awesome! GotTheBug - itchin' for that 20 minute run, eh? Your enthusiasm is infectious! gwhutch - congrats on your new PB! Looks like you've got things well under control! Yellie - congrats on doing that 20 minute run. You're right - sometimes it seems like one problem just follows another. Way to HTFU and make it through. PolePole - you're SO on the right track! Way to go! Heck, by the time the summer running program comes around you may be too far advanced to run with those gals... MoonStar - congrats on your first run outside. Once you get accustomed to it, you may never want to go back to the treadmill ("TM", sometimes known as "the dreadmill" ) ... Remember/be aware that because running on a treadmill is softer than running on sidewalk or pavement, that your legs and joints will need a bit of time to get accustomed to it. When switching to a new surface, it's NOT the time to be pushing the pace. Keep an eye open for the start of injuries and treat them aggressively to keep them from getting worse. As for your time on the TM not matching your pace outside, keep in mind that there's a lot of different things that go on normally that affect what speed you're actually running. Using a TM artificially sets your pace for you... which can be either good or bad. Plus, it's possible that the TM you're using isn't calibrated accurately. Or perhaps it just felt good to be outside - I know that speeds ME up sometimes. Have I mentioned that I'm really proud of you? You're accomplishing so much and doing a fantastic job. (For the rest of you in the group, yes I know MoonStar. )

(WIngz, give me credit for not continuing on - I could have kept going!). Now that I'm back up to 30 minutes, I'll stay here for about 4 weeks and then continue in the OHR program (again!)

ROFL! I know what you mean! I'm really happy for you that things are working out. Hanging out for a month at that level's a fine idea. What can you tell us about the One Hour Runner program? I don't know a thing about it other than it's supposed to help you bridge up to running for an hour straight.