Is this normal?

[Nelsonsmummy]

Just completed W2R3 and since the second run of the week my knees are hurting. Never had this problem in W1 at all. I bought myself some super supportive running shoes which are really comfy and I didn’t find W2 especially hard, in fact I thought it was easier than W1. But I am worried in case I’m damaging my knees. I leave a day between runs and I do my warm ups and cool downs. Has anyone else any experience of this?

[Erddig Graduate]

My knees ached a bit too. They always recovered and I put it down to my muscles strengthening. I ran just under 5k on Thursday and everything was aching. Ok today. As long as you’re stretching should be ok.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

The runs get longer.. and the aches and pains may start.... warm up really well and stretch well after the runs too... try these exercises for your knees

nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/k...

Some non impact exercise on some of your rest days is useful too as the runs lengthen..

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

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

Most new runner's aches and pains are caused primarily by the impact of running, so do all you can to minimise it. Slow down, avoid heelstriking, keep footfall under your body not out in front, run on grass or treadmill and wear proper running shoes fitted after a gait analysis done at a specialist running shop.

Stretching after every run and doing knee strengthening exercises, as linked to by Oldfloss will also help.

Enjoy your journey.

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Ibuprofen. It goes in a week or two. I took ibuprofen an hour before runs (and at other times!) and kept running but some people prefer to rest.