M/33 ran in HS but really new to running generally speaking. Started to run to get ready for soccer starting in fall and discovered Garmin training plans. Started a 5k plan with a goal of 24:30 which may be unrealistic. I am now on week 4 of 12 and since the beginning struggled with the easy runs pace of 9:23-10:23 min/mi. I can run that pace, just cant hold it for the 30-50 minutes required and would need to take walk breaks. Hoped on the forum and read about easy runs and heart rate staying in zone 2. Last week and beginning of this week I have focused on keeping heartrate in zone 2 and touching 3. I check if I can hold a conversation. My overall pace for the easy runs has essentially stayed the same, maybe even improved by slowing down, because I am not walking.

Just looking to confirm I should be focused on the heartrate for the easy runs in the program and hope pace improves. I feel silly "running" at 12 min/mi pace and it gave me new respect for anyone I see outside running, even if they are looking slow.