I started C25K about 2 weeks ago, but I'm not sure it's right for me, at least right now, and I'm struggling with what to do.
My first day out was terrible (tried doing my neighborhood, went too fast, too many hills, etc.), but I found the run intervals more manageable when I jogged at a slower speed and on a mostly flat surface. More manageable, though, hasn't equaled enjoyment, or lack of discomfort/pain. I feel anxiety over going to the gym on the days when I have to do C25K, and dread the discomfort in my lungs and legs. I have been stretching before and after each session, but my shins have been hurting since I started, some days worse than others. My gait on the treadmill feels unnatural and I'm sure that contributes to the leg discomfort (along with the fact that I need better shoes, and my weight of course), but I just don't have the oppotunity to do it outside most days. And I just don't like it. I won't go as far as saying I hate it, but it's not far off from that. I am happy with myself when I complete each session without giving up (with the exception of that first day I've completed all the run intervals), but I don't enjoy anything about it - I just force myself through it.
I miss my walking on the treadmill, which I truly enjoyed and looked forward to. I loved upping my speed and the incline during my walks, making each one harder over the course of 50 minutes. I loved listening to my music and sweating and feeling energized and wanting to keep going. I have never in my life enjoyed any type of cardio workout, and loving my walks on the treadmill was a revelation for me. My cardiovascular fitness and stamina have improved dramatically from where I started 2 months ago.
The only thing that is keeping me going right now with C25K is that I don't want to quit, don't want to be a quitter. I feel like I SHOULD be able to do this, I just need to make myself do it and force myself through it. It's not a lack of motivation or willpower - I WANT to be able to run, and I fight through every one of those run intervals so that I can make that happen. I feel like I CAN do it if I just keep pushing myself... but at what point is the cost too high? Should everyone work toward becoming a runner? Is anyone capable of it? What is the point at which one should consider giving up on an exercise, at least for a time, and prioritize enjoyment and relative comfort (at least, not having any pain or anxiety) over working toward a new ability/skill and fitness level?
I know this probably sounds a bit silly to the runners here, who must wonder how anyone could struggle through 60 and 90 second run intervals. But they are indeed a huge struggle for me, and I appreciate any feedback or experience anyone is willing to offer. Thank you.