Running on grass

[sunni17]

Hi. Having read an earlier post about incorporating Park run into the programme it got me thinking. I have been running on the pavement apart from one run when I tried the park ( to see if it would be easier on my legs). Well, it wasn't easier and I couldn't even complete the 5 minute runs. So I'm now wondering if I manage to complete the programme and enter a Park run, do you think running on grass will be too difficult as I'm not used to it?

[Tracymed]

I think it’s just pushing though the pain my Achilles really hurt for the first 4 weeks and when I did my first out side run I had a job to move the next day, but thankfully I’ve passed it Now and run without pain.

[sunni17 in reply to Tracymed]

Glad you're getting on well, but I just ran out of steam. Will have to try again I think

[Brudeborn in reply to Tracymed]

I have big problems with my Achilles while running. They hurt so much, and I don't even know how to treat them. My dad advised me to buy new running shoes, but I dunno. What's funny I don't feel such problems while I'm working on my lawn with a weed wacker or any other tool. Recently I've found an interesting article at growgardener.com/best-weed-... that described the best weed pullers on the current market. I dunno if I have to get them, but they look handy. I guess I'm going to continue working there instead of running.

[Skiddle1 Graduate in reply to Brudeborn]

I have this issue too and have ordered an ankle support to help. They're very cheap.... Unlike a gait analysis and new running shoes! But it might be eventually you need better running footwear and a gait analysis would help you choose the correct ones for you. Also, make sure you warm up your ankles, calf and feet properly before a run as this helps too and try to avoid running on a hard surface while it recovers. ☺️

[Millsie-J Graduate]

Running on grass is different, but it’s a great idea to begin adding into your routes. It’s easier on the knees, but if it’s wet it can drain energy more. If it’s baked hard it can be tough under foot. But all worth to add into your running toolkit a little at a time. Maybe post graduation .

But,,,,,,,,, don’t assume PR are run on grass......many use the tarmac paths in the parks.....it causes far less damage underfoot for other park users. There are some that run on trails, but at this time of year it might be a really tough call for new runners. We have one in our area..........visitors usually only come once......they can’t get a Parkrun PB on this trail teehee.

If you google the Parkrun you wish to visit there will be a map and description of the route. PR is great fun, worth giving it a go when you are ready to do so👍🏼

Your post made me think about my very first Race for Life a few years ago. Prior to the event I suddenly realised some of the route was on grass, so I began running on the side of the park paths on the grass when I could. So glad I did, you soon get used to the different feel.

[sunni17 in reply to Millsie-J]

I just assumed they would be on grass as our local park hasn't really got suitable paths for a run. I like your Idea of running beside a path on grass for short intervals. Thank you

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Is it a parkrun fully on grass? Not many of them near me. Grass is easier on the joints but harder work for the muscles. I do most running on grass and I am faster on tarmac. As the difference is energy consumption then running longer on the pavement would have you ready to run the distance on grass.

We have a variety of parkruns here, some are fully on paths, so maybe there’s another near you which may suit you more at the moment.

[sunni17 in reply to UnfitNoMore]

It seems to be a mixture of both but I will check it out properly nearer the time. There is also a PR in the woods which I like the sound of. When I tried to run in the park the grass was very uneven as wrong time of year to be mown so that didn't help.

[UnfitNoMore Graduate in reply to sunni17]

One of my local ones is 50% grass and 50% trail or thereabouts... yesterday it was 50% slippery mud and 50% puddles and grit of course!

If the woods in yours have trail paths then that could be a good halfway to grass point to train on.

[Curlygurly2 Graduate]

If you can afford it, trail shoes will make a big difference...