Aches and Pains!

[achyrunner]

Evening All, I am new to running and exercise in general really. I am tackling this problem using the Couch to 5k app. It was going fairly well until the end of week 2 when I started getting pains in my legs and by the end of my first run in week 3 I have been unable to complete any more of the runs as the pain (muscle I presume) is really uncomfortable. I have rested for a week now and it doesn’t seem to be getting any easier. I religiously do the 5 min warm up&down. Should it last as long as this? I can still walk it is just really steady, I did try a brief run but had to stop within a few steps! Any thoughts or similar experiences?

[Johnnylewis Graduate]

Sorry to hear that. Where exactly is the pain and when does it come on if you know what I mean

[achyrunner in reply to Johnnylewis]

At the risk of sounding like a pansy anywhere between the tops of my toes and my lower back! Seems to rear its head when I do anything other than very gentle walking. Worse sometimes than others can’t seem to pin point.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

Your experience is not uncommon.

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

and includes advice on pacing, minimising impact, stretching after every run, hydration and strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.

[achyrunner in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for the advice I will take a look.