OMG I'm halfway through - but now I've got a problem shoe!

[Songfish]

OMG halfway through!

Wk4 R2 completed & can't believe this non-runner is half way through the programme. Must say the music this week is def an acquired taste (which I may never acquire!!) Treated myself to some new trainers & have been v worried about calf pain while wearing them & also tingling/slight numbness in the sole of my foot. I didn't have any of these issues before, just felt my older trainers weren't offering much cushioning - & I'm not a lightweight. How on earth do people know if they're buying the correct footwear? I researched lots & tried lots & these felt great in the shop having a little run - I don't know whether to keep trying with them or whether I'm risking injury! It's like buying a mattress - a little lie down & a roll about (haha) in the shop feels great but you get it on the bed & find you have a sleepless night. I suspect I have just entered the world of 'first world runners' problems' 😆

[runswithdogs Graduate]

Take them back - a good shop should exchange them. Pins and needles probably means they're too tight. You could also loosen the laces.

[Songfish in reply to runswithdogs]

Thanks, I may try them once more on the treadmill with the laces looser then I'll take them back if they're no better 😀

[Brightgutties]

My new running shoes felt horrible the first two times I ran in them. I was worried that my bf had wasted loads of money for an anniversary present, but the third run they were incredible. Your feet and muscles are reacting to better support so they will take a bit of getting used to. But when you do, it will be worth it.

[Songfish in reply to Brightgutties]

I run on a treadmill at the mo so maybe I could try a couple more times & still return them if they're uncomfortable. I'm just starting to feel more confident running so the discomfort really threw me!

[Irish-John Graduate]

I researched the heck out of that question because I have to be ultra-careful of what I put on my feet. I went to a New Balance store over here (USA) that has a profession orthopod on staff and I asked him a lot of questions gleaned from my research to make sure he REALLY knew his stuff and was not just trying to sell shoes. Problem shoes are a serious matter - can literally give you a lifetime of pain in some instances - so please don't feel embarrassed to take care choosing or to walk away (no pun intended) if you feel you are being put into the wrong ones. Good shoes are pricey to buy - but I promise you, the return is phenomenal. Wishing you well.

[Songfish in reply to Irish-John]

Thanks John. I guess I don't really feel I'm a proper runner yet so I've not had an analysis done - & of course until recently I couldn't even run for a minute either. Will def organise one 😀

[Suebguineapig Graduate]

The gait analysis thing is not, in my opinion, a fad. I apparently have one normal leg and one pronating (can't remember whether is over or under, or even which leg) but gist is I need high support shoes, hence the lovely yellow Nikes which was what they had in my size.Take them back and get analysed is my view!

[Songfish in reply to Suebguineapig]

I didn't even know that could be a thing! Just shows doesn't it. I'm going to have to be brave & go for one aren't I? Just feel like I'm not a proper runner ..

[Suebguineapig Graduate in reply to Songfish]

Come on. You ARE a proper runner!

[mcgurranhouse Graduate in reply to Suebguineapig]

Just what I was going to say!

[melly4012 Graduate]

Yes, gait analysis is key! Find a shop that does one and check that the shoes are working for the way you run. I am currently in the middle of 4-6 weeks on the injury couch because I didn't have shoes with the right support. Don't risk injury, make sure your shoes are right for you.

Now you're starting to run for longer as well then make sure your stretching which should help your calves. When I started to stretch after running and also between the warm up walk and running sections then my calves felt a lot better. Well done for getting halfway through! You'll be running for 30 minutes before you know it!

[TheHack Graduate]

You are a proper runner! I had gait analysis at week 5 and invested in a great pair of trainers. If you feel strange going into a running shop try Decathlon. They were great and the young man even chatted to me about other people who had done c25k and bought their shoes there.

[mcgurranhouse Graduate in reply to TheHack]

Brilliant - another excuse to visit Decathlon - as if I needed one

[Songfish in reply to TheHack]

I'll have to try & find a Decathlon then thanks for the advice!

[Bluebirdrunner Graduate]

I agree with Melly, don't be embarrased about getting your gait analysed, its free in a good running shop.

Try not having the laces tight, just done up with a double knot Do some toe lifts and heel drop exercises after your run while your muscles are still warm. Drink plenty of water afterwards, this warm weather is dehydrating and your muscles need it.

Good luck.😊

[Songfish in reply to Bluebirdrunner]

Thanks for the suggestions , I went back to using my old trainers but have worn the new ones in the house - will be trying them again at the weekend - with looser laces & some extra stretches after. 😄