Knees and Hips hurting.

[JustDave]

So I finished week 2 on Saturday morning. It was a little intimidating as I was out at the same time as the Park Run crowd, who are all way healthier than me, but I got it done.

My problem is that I now have really painful knees and (to a lesser extent) hips. It isn't muscle pain, I have had a little of that and it has faded quickly. This feels like the joints are having a little objection to the sudden burst of excercise.

SWMBO (who has done C25K) thinks that it is probably my shoes not being up to the task. They are basic Adidas trainers, not running shoes, but I didn't want to splash out on an expensive pair until I felt that I could commit to it a little more, but I may have to.

Interested to hear if anyone else has had similar issues and if proper running shoes helped or if it was found to be anything else.

Bit frustrated as I was quite looking forward to starting week 3, but it looks like I may have to take a few days then step back to week 1 or 2 when I am sorted.

[OldPossum]

I ran in old trainers when I started and suffered badly with my feet. Went for gait analysis and bought the right shoes and it definitely helped me. If you're going to splash out it's definitely worth having the analysis done to make sure you buy the right shoe. I'm pretty sure it could make a difference to hips and knees.

[boptillyoudrop49 Graduate]

Well cushioned shoes would definitely be better. We can get aches and pains to start with. It is to be expected really when you ask something of your body which it is not used to doing aynd running does place enormous pressure on the joints so anything that counteracts that is good. If possible, try not to run on concrete. It is the most unforgiving surface and relentless on your joints. Run on earth or grass if at all possible. I'd do a longer warm-up walk to get myself to a softer surface. In fact I always do since getting knee pain and thankfully have not had it since. Fingers crossed this is easily sorted.

[mazmann Graduate]

And don't forget the Park Run runners started somewhere too.

[Hidden]

Hi justdave I'm in the same boat I was going to start week 3 tomorrow but my knee is so bad looks like a step back is the only thing I can do at the minute. Feels fine in the morning but by the end of the day agony again, gutted. Alot of members have mentioned gait analysis and better shoes so looks like that needs to be my next step also. Here's hoping we can both get back to the program soon

[McFitty Graduate]

Head, shoulders, Neez and calves, Neez and calves... Definitely had the same problem in the early weeks. Tight leggings helped my calves but running on grass rather than tarmac was the biggest help for my knees. I also found a foam roller and stretching afterwards was helpful. My left knee played up a lot and so I was advised to Google knee strengthening exercises, which I've done on a daily basis ever since and had no problems (except minor niggles) since. I think you'll also find you may get a bit 'lighter of foot' as you progress. Hope ti eases for you and you can get back on track. Oh and iceing your knees also helps.

[AncientMum Graduate]

As the others have said, gait analysis is important to ensure you're wearing the correct running shoes but can I suggest both you and Hidden take some time to rest your joints before progressing. R.I.C.E. -Rest Ice Compression and Elevation will all help your knees. Whilst you're resting, have a look at the pinned posts on the right hand side of the page, for the NHS Choices guides to how to run and stretch correctly. They're both packed with excellent advice and well worth reading. (There's also a link to knee strengthening exercises on the NHS stretching page.) Don't worry about taking time out to get your joints sorted out. If you want running to be for a lifetime, then what's a week's rest? Good luck

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

Yes, I ran in ordinary trainers and got shin splints in week two - so painful. You really need proper running shoes, think of it not so much as not wanting to splash out until you know you're committed, but as splashing out making you commit!

Excellent advice above from AM. xx

[zelly in reply to Curlygurly2]

I used to get shin splints but now do stretches and never get them anymore. As part of your stretching routine hold each leg in the air and just move the feet/toes up and down about 15 times.

[zelly]

Some aches and twinges are normal. My knees often complain when I run. But not actual, proper pain. I've never run without proper running shoes though as I think that is very important. They are expensive, I think mine cost £100, but I've had them for years and gym memberships can set you back nearly the same amount each month, so if you think of it like that it's actually a bargain!

[Lon70 Graduate]

I invested in proper running shoes and they do help. They are more cushioned and supportive. Hope you rest and get better soon

[Mazzspud]

Husband hobbled back after week 2 run 2 with knee pain so he is resting up.mhe thinks he is 25.....I wish. I will have to tell him about running on grass. Me? Hip ache! I'll keep doing the same run until he is fit and healthy.

[JustDave]

Thanks for all the replies and apologies for the lack of responses. Had a week of night shifts and then been away down in Devon for a week.

My legs are feeling much better so will be off to do the gait analysis this week then I will be starting again. Hopefully this time I won't have so many issues.