Just started my training : Iv just started... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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Just started my training

RSTurbo50 profile image
15 Replies

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 profile image
RSTurbo50
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15 Replies
Bazza1234 profile image
Bazza1234Graduate

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 :)

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Hi and welcome... where are you on the C25K programme?

RSTurbo50 profile image
RSTurbo50 in reply toOldfloss

I'm literally on week 1 and have just completed my second session this evening..

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate in reply toRSTurbo50

Okay... slow and steady... try to land gently and lightly. Try some strength and flex exercises on rest days.... and stretch after every run...

nhs.uk/Livewell/c25k/Pages/...

Woodhaven20 profile image
Woodhaven20Graduate in reply toOldfloss

So true oldfloss. Slow and steady gets you over the finish line

SlowLoris profile image
SlowLoris

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.

rolysmate profile image
rolysmateGraduate

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

Bluebirdrunner profile image
BluebirdrunnerGraduate

Well done starting the c25k program RSTurbo😊..

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..

Good luck with W5 R3...😊

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

Welcome.

You may find this helpful healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.

Peter271 profile image
Peter271

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.

misswobble profile image
misswobbleGraduate

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

Good luck with it. Have fun! 😃👍

Marmiteman profile image
Marmiteman

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

Rammy75 profile image
Rammy75

I’ve found this useful for the odd calf niggle

sportsinjuryscotland.co.uk/...

SuzyKK profile image
SuzyKKGraduate

I find a slightly longer (maybe 10 mins instead of 5) "warm up" walk helps :-)

Hexslug profile image
HexslugGraduate

Me too.

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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