Iv just started jogging and walking as I want to lower my blood pressure. Being a bus driver, I want to get fitter. Energy wise I don't get too out of breath, the issue seems to be a dull ache in my calfs, it's like they seize up and feel heavy.
Is this something that will eventually ease?
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RSTurbo50
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These kind of minor pains and aches can have multiple causes. They can come simply from the fact that the muscles/tendons have not been used much and are simply complaining - could be that your shoes aren't right for you - could be your running "style/form" - probably could be lots more "could be's" My answer for you would be firstly to learn how to run "properly" - there is a saying that, we run because we can, not because we know how to. So dont assume that you naturally know how to run - lots of info re this on the Internet/youtube. Other than that , take it nice and easy - it is common for beginning later year runners with a personal problem to solve to throw themselves into this too eagerly. Regard this ( and your new "diet" ) to be the start of your new life - not as a quick fix pill for your high blood pressure - you will get there
If they don't get better then stop and rest them. Don't get hooked into thinking this is strictly a nine week program. You can repeat weeks, take extra rest days, do whatever suits you. You'll be amazed at how quickly you progress as long as you don't push it too hard.
Here's my twopenneth for what it's worth, I started this programme back in June for similar reasons to you and guess what my calves ached along with other parts, as long as it's a dull ache and not pain I don't think you've got to much to worry about though if it becomes pain that's not good BUT as has been said stretch before and after and make sure you do the warm up.
Altered my diet and still running, have lost weight and reduced my blood pressure and am now a born again runner
The program works and as Oldfloss says just take it nice and steady. Make sure you are well hydrated before your running session and afterwards to replenish your muscles. Some gentle leg stretches after your warm down walk while your muscles are still warm is a good idea too..
It’s just your body toughening up. Remember to gently stretch before and after. Don’t stop jogging though, the muscles do recover and you’ll be stronger for it.
It’s new runner niggles. Your body telling you that something unusual is happening and it’s protesting. As long as you go nice and slowly your body will get used to it. Always take the rest days as that’s when the running legs get built
Walking is a good cross training exercise. It will be good for you if you’re on the bus most of the time, so do try and make it a habit for life
If your diet needs overhauling, this is a good time for a review
I had the same sort of thing when I started and occasionally now if I don't stretch the calf's before I start the activity so I just do a couple of leg stretches before I go and it appears to help
Calf muscles go tight at the end of the first run of the session. Had a 4 day rest after W2R1 because my right calf felt injured, went ok for a bit after that. W4R1 right calf really sore again, so was resting then got a cold so had 9 days off. Did W4R2 today and calves cramped up after first run again, they eased up though and completed the session with no problem. So, my calf muscles seem to be my weak link too but they are getting better. Sorry that I do not have a solution for you.
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