Knees!

[Melissa_j]

Hi guys. I have just finished W2R2 and I'm very proud of myself but my knees are PISSED! Can anyone recommend some kind of knees support?

[spoonierunning Graduate]

Well done on completing w2r2.

As kitty kat recommends Tubigrip is very good, but make sure you only wear it during the day. I would also recommend applying ice to your knees and if you can if in pain take anti inflammatories.

[Rignold]

and do thigh strengthening exercises. Squats and lunges.

[Slookie Graduate in reply to Rignold]

... and another vote for knee strengthening exercises - couple of posts here recently about knee exercises.

[useitorloseit Graduate]

If you can run on grass it will be better for your knees (though a little harder on everything else, in my experience!). Do the strengthening exercises too on your non-running days. If they are too sore have extra rest days. Over time, your knees will get stronger. I have just started running without the straps - it's taken my knees 4 months to get to that stage though!

[misswobble Graduate]

Rig is quite right. As you go through the runs your knees will get stronger but you can help matters by doing some strengthening exercises. Swimming, walking, cycling, gym or exercises DVD's will all help make you fitter and stronger which in turn will help your running and support your knees. You have to bear in mind that if you are literally straight off the couch, and new to running, you can expect to ache. It's your body protesting at the unusual onslaught

Good luck with it!

[Vixchile Graduate]

i too had knee issues as all these lovely people say knee strengthening exercise make a huge difference.

[AncientMum Graduate]

Tubigrip and knee strengthening exercises, RICE after each run and extra rest days if you feel you need them. A combination of the above should see you right. Good luck.

[ginaw167 Graduate]

Strengthen and check your running form to make sure you aren't under or over using muscles that will then pull your knees out of alignment.