Aching calf muscles

[Dylan999]

Hi everyone, just finished week 4, I am a 49 year old male, any advice on my cramping calf muscles mid-way? Changed my running shoes to memory foam insole type which has helped. My fitness is hampered by my calf muscles, I have plenty left in the bag but my legs say no! Any idea's would be a great help TIA.

[Bazza1234 Graduate]

I started running 5 years ago and for the first few years had problems with tight aching calf muscles and feet going numb. Tried all sorts of things like stretching and rolling, new shoes, exercises etc - but finally the problem went away after I started wearing long compression stockings/socks during a run. The problem went away so much that I eventually stopped using the stockings with no problem. BUT - after a 6 month injury last year, I have returned to the roads this year and my calf muscles problem has returned with a vengeance. I have finally decided to start wearing the compression stockings again (they are a bit of a pain to put on)

[Dylan999 in reply to Bazza1234]

Thanks for the advice, I'll have to invest in some of these socks, cheers

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Enjoy your journey.

[misswobble Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Go slowly too. You’re new to this and your calves are not yet built. Slow running and rest days 🙂

[Dylan999 in reply to misswobble]

Thanks, will do!

[mrrun Graduate]

Are you hydrating properly, and have you got correct insoles, regardless of the make of your shoes? Hydrating as in drinking a few litres of water every day, at least. Are you doing daily calf stretching exercises? Are you making sure your shoes are not too tight around the ankles? Firm but not too tight is the idea.