Shins are sorted, now my calves are hurting!

[LPMS]

After my first few runs I posted that shins were in lots of pain, I bought some running shoes and now my shins don't hurt!

However, my calves are killing. The only way I can describe it is I am running in heels. I am bouncing on the bottom step before I go and on the kerb before I start running. But after the 2nd run it hurts. This started on the first run with my new shoes.

I am still running on week 1 and I feel I can progress to week 2 as I am not out of breath as I was 3 weeks ago, but I cannot run through the calf pain.

Any ideas?

[UnfitNoMore Graduate]

Are you effectively running on heels? I mean are you landing toe first... that’s a great way to run eventually, but flat feet landing under the body is best until much later. Also, hydration makes a huge difference to muscles, especially the calves so check that you’re drinking plenty of water every day. Another factor is pace... slow it down a little and it can feel a lot better.

Great job on the runs... it all gets better in time. Enjoy your next run.

[Fairywhite Graduate]

Definitely slow down. As your muscles get stronger they probably won’t hurt you as much. I get this sometimes and find it worse if I’m running on a treadmill rather than outside. Don’t let it stop you, just don’t pound the pavement as hard.

Keep going and good luck!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Did you buy running shoes fitted after a gait analysis done at a specialist running shop? If not they may be causing the problem.

Do you stretch after every run, as recommended in the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... it can make a major difference.

Are you following the advice in the guide in respect of minimising impact?