w8r1. Hard work and heavy legs

[Scram]

Hi, I completed w8r1 this morning and am pleased at my progress having started the programme as confirmed non runner. Lots of people seem to be bobbing along quite happily but I am having to dig really deep to finish the runs. I know I have made huge progress as I am now running 28 minutes at a slow and steady pace but boy am I having to work at it.

One of the main issues is heavy legs. It an odd feeling but almost as though someone has put lead in my thighs and calfs. Someone suggested magnesium oil spray. Is this a real thing and if so does it work? Does anyone have any suggestions how to overcome the heavy legs as its becoming more of a problem as I complete longer runs?

[Tasha99 Graduate]

Try drinking lots and lots of water the day before running.

Also, everyone struggles to complete the runs - don’t think it’s just you! You’re doing great.

I’ve tried bath crystals with magnesium - made no difference. Hydration is key.

[Buddy34 Graduate]

Can you recall how much water you are drinking each day this is usually the problem😊

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

As mentioned in the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... heavy legs can be symptomatic of poor hydration. The guide also suggests how much you should be drinking.

Stretching straight after every run, as per guide, will also help pull tensions out your muscles, avoiding carrying them into the next run.

[runwithdog Graduate]

lots of hydration the day b4 worked for me.

also i used other trainers last week,they felt really comfy but achey calves after so worth experimenting with footwear.

[notquiteretired Graduate]

hi Scram, I found drinking plenty and stretching before and after starting each run helped me with heavy legs and keeping a slow pace. 🐢👍