Slight ache week 7

[DaneUser]

Just completed w7r2 so I have now run 3 x 25 minutes on the bounce. For the first time since starting ,my muscles are aching slightly the day after. Feels normal but can I do anything to stop it. Stretching etc?

[Maddee_6333 Graduate]

Stretching is your friend, yes. I find dynamic stretches post run work best for me. As does a not too hot bath or shower.

Oh and a foam roller is also good before heading out - though I can’t use one at the moment as I’m recovering from a broken wrist.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

The guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... has links to stretches appropriate for both pre run and post run.

When you push muscle groups beyond their normal range they can contract, which makes them feel tight, reduces blood flow and puts tensions on tendons.

By stretching immediately after every run, while muscles are warm and supple, you pull those contractions out, improving repair because of better blood flow and easing tension on tendons. Otherwise you can be carrying those muscle tensions into your next run.

I still stretch after every run.