W4R1, Calf strain?

[Jay_Gee]

Yesterday I went out for my W4R1 run, and took a different route than normal to distract me. First 3 & 5 minute runs fine - felt really good, then about half way through my next 3 minutes (whilst going up an incline) my right calf started to get more and more painful. I ended up hobble running to finish the time - but there was no way I could start the last 5 mins.

As I walked home, I tried to stretch it, and through yesterday I kept stretching periodically - though the calf was always very tender when walking.

Today it feels a lot better, but the strain is still there. The questions are:

Do I wait for it to be completely gone before trying again, or will a compression bandage suffice?

Is there anything else I should be doing to help this recover? Would doing some shorter runs (e.g. week 2) help the muscle?

Any advice appreciated!

[Lillybeth30mins Graduate]

I would suggest that if it’s still painful then to take an extra rest day or two. Lots of stretches and lots of people on here use foam rollers... although I’ve never tried one myself

Liz x

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

You have damaged something. Let it recover or you are likely to exacerbate it.

Are you wearing running shoes fitted after a gait analysis done at a specialist running shop? The correct shoes can help prevent injury.

Do not overstride. Footfall should be under your body not out in front.

Take shorter strides when running uphill.

Take care.