Aching calfs: Hi all. I'm a very overweight... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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Aching calfs

Absolute-beginner profile image

Hi all. I'm a very overweight (+ 5stone) beginner on week 2 and astounded that I'm managing to keep on track! Feeling really pleased that so far I'm managing to follow it without passing out. Only problem is the pain in my calf's which is worse when I do the walking bit. By the end of my run they feel not too bad but just wondering if there's anything I can do about it or will it pass the fitter I get? All advice gratefully received.

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Absolute-beginner profile image
Absolute-beginner
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6 Replies
Firsttk profile image
Firsttk

I'm the same (in both weight and pain), you just need to do some stretches, (I find putting my foot up on a bench and leaning forward really helps) and I find slowing the walk slightly also helps!

Good luck and keep it up!

Absolute-beginner profile image
Absolute-beginner in reply to Firsttk

Thank you - I'll give it a go!

Rignold profile image
Rignold

It is just muscle ache due to being unused to the activity. it will get better as you get fitter but you can help in the meanwhile by doing strengthening exercises (calf raises etc) and investing in a foam roller or a lacrosse ball. It may hurt a little more during the therapy before it gets better but it will help, particularly if you make it a daily habit.

Absolute-beginner profile image
Absolute-beginner in reply to Rignold

Great thanks - I'll definitely give them a go.

EmRe profile image
EmRe

I too am 5 stone overweight and had calf pain but it is lessening as I move through the programme. Well done, I have also found the fitness bug has made me more interested in eating healthily so hopefully the weight will gradually reduce.

Couldn't agree more EmRe. I'm eating much more healthily because of the couch to 5k. Must say a little bit frustrated at very slow weight loss (an average of 1lb a week) but being positive that I can't keep doing this without it starting to fall off ( I also play tennis for 1.5 hrs per week). Feeling so much better for it anyway and so so excited that I managed w4r1 last night. Go me... go us!

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