Thighs and Highs :(

[Keep-it-ticking]

I just can't understand what's going on, whenever I run up an incline my thighs are painful and I struggle. I wear lyrca running shorts and found this helps a little bit but not much. I do a lot of walking and hills are never a problem then. I'm finding it very frustrating now.

[pinkaardvark Graduate10]

I guess your thighs aren't strong enough to support the demand your putting on them. Maybe try to do more squats and leg presses down the gym to build them up a bit.

[davelinks Graduate10]

Legs should get stronger as you carry on running, proper form techniques is a factor....

Improper form can be a contributing factor to running pain on hills. Because you are fighting gravity as you climb the hill, your legs will have to take on more work. This causes many people to lean forward in order to make it feel easier. However, this is bad form and can lead to pain. Instead, focus on keeping your form tall with your head held high. In addition, mentally reminding yourself of proper form elements, such as using your hips and keeping your arms moving, can help you keep your form when running up hills.

[Keep-it-ticking Graduate10 in reply to davelinks]

That's given me something to think about as I hadn't considered my posture, thanks for that.

[ju-ju- Graduate10]

Are you a fan of squats? Rignold can testify that squats are the panacea for all ills.....

[Keep-it-ticking Graduate10]

Thanks for the replies, I've broken into a sweat at the mere mention of squats ! Might try a cross trainer as well as I often have problems with the leg they took the graft from for my bypass.

[Rignold in reply to Keep-it-ticking]

Cross trainer will do nada for you. It does all the work for your legs It is designed to allow people who cant do impact to get cardio vascular benefit.

[IannodaTruffe Graduate10]

It is quite simple actually, you use your thighs (and all your leg muscles) more when ascending rather than running on the flat.

Squats!