Lower leg pain ... any advice??

[VioletRainbow]

Hi,

I’ve just completed W2R1.

During the brisk walk parts of each run my lower left shin just above my ankles gets quite painful. It’s like a burning sensation. It’s always my left leg and it eases when I run and when I walk more slowly.

I do plenty of stretches before I start and my right leg is fine.

Starting to wonder if, in my keenness to run, I’ve forgotten how to walk properly!!

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Sometimes with a new exercise you get the odd ache see how you go 😊

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and includes links to stretches.

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.

Cross training on your rest days will also strengthen your legs.

[MarkyD Graduate]

That's just shin splints. It's caused by over-striding when you are trying to walk briskly. It will go away as you work your way through the program.

But the easiest way to stop it happening is to take shorter steps when you are walking. I know that you want to walk briskly, but try to increase your steps-per-minute and not your stride.

For more advice, search this C25K forum for the word "Assassin".

[VioletRainbow]

Thanks for the advice!