Advice for a newbie

[Biscuit27]

I’m new and a previous certified couch potato but have just finished week 2, my leg muscles hurt (a lot) - any tips?

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Ibuprofen 😂

My knees hurt a lot at the start so I took ibuprofen an hour before running. I think niggles are normal 👌🏽

Keep running 🏃🏾‍♀️💪🏽

[Denovo]

Stretching might help, although I must confess I never stretch because I find it so boring. You could try externally applied things on your legs, like ibuprofen gel or (my personal favourite) Tiger Balm. A generous measure of wine or your favourite spirit can also help relax the muscles if you are OK with such an option.

[Ang33333 Graduate]

I think If you aren't used to exercise , as I wasn't, everything just hurts! Stretching helps. Good footwear is a must. Since I got proper runners I've had less aches. And don't run too fast! Slow and steady!! 🐌

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Maybe yoga and cross training... but you’re gonna get some aches as your legs realise you’ve given them work to do.

Imagine you had a job and all you had to do was be there daily. Then all of a sudden you had to earn that salary... you’d be a bit miffed... and you’d moan about it. That’s what your legs are doing right now. As long as it’s a dull ache and not sharp stabbing, all is normal.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Stretching after every run makes an amazing difference to new runners, as outlined in the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.

[ArthurJG Graduate]

It may be to do with footwear. At least that’s what it was with me. Proper shoes after gait analysis at a specialist running shop made a huge difference to me.

[Biscuit27]

Thank you all for your advice - my legs are definately in shock ATM but stretching, ibuprofen and tiger balm all sound like a good plan. I have bought some mid range running shoes but maybe they aren’t good enough? Gin although probably the best medicine I’m afraid has to wait for the weekends!