First issues with calf pain and running, need input

jennyp08 · April 2010

Hi;

So i'm into week 4 on C25K. I started feeling soreness on my left calf while running. I went jogging outdoors with my FI, and its the first time since starting the program that I've run outdoors. Could the pavement have caused the pain, or is the extra .5-.25 mileage starting to bother my legs?

Any suggestions, other than icing it and stretching it before and after, to help with the soreness?

Nebb · April 2010

Im no pro but I know youre not supposed to stretch before your body is warmed up, so you shouldnt stretch before a run. If thats what you meant.

jennyp08 · April 2010

I always stretch really well after I run, and then I ice it. I do a few stretches, and then my warm up walk before I run.

Does the warm up walk take the place of stretching that needs to be done pre-run?

soontobeklg · April 2010

I would bet it's the pavement. C25k really eases you into the distance, so I don't think you're adding too much at a time if you're following the program. If you live in a low traffic area, try to run on the side of the road. Or run in the grass. Pavement is hard, but sidewalk is even worse (I don't know which you were on, but keep that in mind)
How long has this pain been going on? Does it hurt while you run or after you run? How fast does it go away?

The first thing I would suggest is check your shoes. Are they worn out? You should replace them every 300-500 miles. Are you wearing the right type of shoe? I know you want to start running regularly. It might be time to go to a running specialty store and have them analyze your stride and tell you what type of shoe is best for you. That made a HUGE difference for me as far as shin pain goes.

I usually stretch before I run. Not hard enough to pull anything, but just a little to make sure I'm loose. Nebb is right, don't overstretch, but I think a little gentle stretching seems to help me (VERY gentle). And yes, walking before you run is a good idea. I always start off my run very slowly, like my pace for the first mile is at least 1 min slower than the rest of the run. It allows you to warm up and ease into it.

I hope this helps!

kagkiki11 · April 2010

As Nebb said - You should not strech without first warming up!

You can pull muscles and hurt yourselft! I was told this by numerous Cross Country/Track coaches and trainers I have had in the past.

cac847 · April 2010

I once had a volleyball coach tell me that muscles are like gum, and to think of stretching a cold muscle like stretching an unchewed piece of gum and stretching a warm muscle like a chewed piece of gum. Ideally, I like to do a warmup, stretch, and then run, but since I started c25k last week I've just been running and stretching after.

jennyp08 · April 2010

Thanks girls. I did run on the sidewalk. It was dark, and I was nervous to run on the road, even though I was with friends--I don't trust drivers at night.

I bet it was just too hard on my legs. Its only been a day, and its a little sore and tender on one leg. I just asked right away because I've never had it bother me before and want to nip it in the bud. I've been meaning to get in and get fitted for new running shoes soon also. I know I'll be doing this consistently now so it makes sense to go get them now.

raynes · April 2010

When I do C25K, I pause after the warm-up walk to do a bit of light stretching. I found that the first few times I ran on the sidewalk things hurt, but it got better quickly!

glam70s · April 2010

To relieve muscle soreness, you could try buying some epsom salts at the drug store. Add a bunch of that to a hot bath and soak for a little while - you'd be amazed at the difference it makes! It's one of the secrets that keep gymnasts and contortionists able to practice day after day..

First issues with calf pain and running, need input

Re: First issues with calf pain and running, need input

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