Calf pain

[kez31]

Hi, I have done week 4 run 2 today but really struggled with pain in my calfs, like a crampy pain, can anyone suggest anything to help, I've tried stretching before and after, cold shower to my legs like an ice bath, hydration I'm working on. I really want to make that 5 minute run but just can't quite get there and part of it is the calf pain but then I also start telling myself I'm not gonna make it and so I dont

[RI78 Graduate]

I too suffered with my calves but when I got to the day before W9R2 I had my gait analysis done and bought new trainers. First run in them was completely different! No pain in my calves whatsoever. I had running trainers before but not had them fitted. Definitely made the difference for me. Hope that helps 😊

[Fairywhite Graduate]

Water water water about 30 mins before you run.

[Lynsh Graduate]

I had this and I'd agree with lots of water, definitely helped me get through that point. Good luck 🏃

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Are you doing dynamic stretches before a run, rather than static? Static stretching before a run has a suggested link with injury. See the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Static post run stretching, immediately after the run, whilst muscles are warm and supple, pulls out tensions and avoids carrying them into the next run. It also improves recovery.

Hydration, again covered in the guide, is far more crucial than many realise.

Appropriate footwear can make a huge difference also.

[Elisabeth3 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

How to do dynamic stretch? How much is it needed? Thanks.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Elisabeth3]

There is a link in the guide to dynamic stretches. They are not something I do, unless the weather is particularly cold. For post run static stretches you need to feel the pull to the degree that it is on the verge of becoming uncomfortable. I hold them for thirty seconds.

[Elisabeth3 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks. I will check the pre-run stretch. I have heard of it but not done.

Post run I always stretch.

[Cuig1975]

I’d agree with the water thing especially the day before , I struggled for a bit and the water made all the difference