Thinking of giving in!

[Slowman]

Im 58, 13st, 6’ tall man, over the last two and a half years i have lost 4.5 stones through diet (on & off) and excersize. Joined a gym 2 years ago and weight train 3 times a week and also do classes 3 or 4 times a week. 14 yrs ago got a lump in my achilles and then again 6 yrs ago jogging too much too quick. Decided to be sensible and try again but slower following C25K app. Now week 8 and loving it. Running on trails. My right achilles has just started aching yet again !!! Might be just gym work and hiking for me then !

[Pianism Graduate]

Oh noooo! My heart goes out to you. I've been suffering from Achilles issues since week 8 and luckily have easy access to a sports therapist so get weekly advice. I've just had to take it a LOT slower than my ego would like... 10 days off at week 8 and a significant amount of consolidation post C25K. Plus eccentric heel drops and knee strengthening exercises EVERY day.

Before you give up, is there any chance you can see a physio or sports therapist? I work at an University and we have a podiatry and sports injury clinic that's open to the public. £15 a go but so worth it if you can keep running.

I wish you all the very best - do keep us updated.

[Jogunlikely Graduate]

If you are enjoying it then don't give up until you have exhausted all avenues.

I echo Pianism and suggest you see a physio or similar health professional.

Good luck

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

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

You might find this pdf about Achilles tendinopathy useful dropbox.com/s/48ei79dgofq8f...

I had an Achilles problem but careful treatment and good shoes have kept it at bay for four years.

Take care and enjoy the journey.

[Slowman]

Well as i went away over the Easter weekend i gave it a rest thursday to sunday and my achilles was better for it. Ran monday and this morning - completed week 8 !!!!! Yay but right achilles sore throughout. Had a biometric assessment done, apparently my right leg is 4mm shorter than left so now have 4mm raise in all my right footwear. I have been doing heel raises & drops, calf rolling (right calf with the sore achilles is much tighter than left) and started using ice cold gel packs. Also trying hot compress 5mins followed by ice followed by hot etc. Todays run - achilles is worse, could feel it throughout the run and after. lets hope it eases for week 9 (on holiday in Spain from tomorrow so will be running on pavement instead of cross country), also hiking every day. I did see a sports physio years ago so doing the calf & achilles stretches he suggested.