Legs aching!

[Chezzer67]

Week 3 completed, yeah. My legs ache when I'm running, does this get better as the weeks go on? I've not run since school and I'm 52! 😊 😊 😊

[Sadie-runs Graduate]

I had terrible leg ache when I first started running! And they would ache the day after, too. 😕 But yes, this did stop for me, as I got fitter and stronger. I cannot remember exactly when...but I now run 5k-10k with no aches at all!

Make sure you do some good (but gentle!) calf, quad and hamstring stretches after every run - and, a warm bath in Epsom salts can be very soothing. Once you feel a bit stronger, look into doing some basic strength work to do on your rest days for your legs - single leg squats are great!

Well done on completing week 3! 👏👏👏👏 Keep going. 👍

[Chezzer67 Graduate in reply to Sadie-runs]

Hi Sadie, thanks very much for your advice. My legs don't ache afterwards, just when I'm running! I'll definitely do the exercises you suggest, thanks again 👍😊

[Sadie-runs Graduate in reply to Chezzer67]

Hmmmm - that is strange! I used to get a feeling of “heavy” legs when I first started running, but drinking more water every day helped that! How is your running posture? Are you nice and upright when you run? - and I hope you are running nice and slowly, too! Are your shoes good?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on

getting started.

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

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

Enjoy your journey.