Week 4 run 1 and injury strikes : Just attempted... - Couch to 5K

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Week 4 run 1 and injury strikes

MartyH80 profile image
MartyH80Graduate
4 Replies

Just attempted week 4 run 1 and was feeling great up until about 10 minutes in when I felt a pain in my calf, tried to carry on but feels like I've pulled something there.

Anybody had something similar or got any advice to get me back out running asap, really gutted I couldn't finish today's run

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MartyH80 profile image
MartyH80
Graduate
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4 Replies
IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

The guide to the plan has links to the NHS sports injuries site and basic info.

Sounds like a pulled muscle.

Stretching immediately after every run, nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/h... while muscles are still warm and supple, pulls out contractions, avoiding carrying tensions into the next run and also improves recovery by improving blood flow.

Take care.

Elfe5 profile image
Elfe5Graduate

Yes I have had a muscle pull in my calf.

Rest it & give it a deep massage (gentle) several times a day with a roller. - I just used my rolling pin because I don’t have a sports foam roller - even a tennis ball or an apple will do!! Also use the excellent advice from IT about stretching.

Once it’s healed, try a cautious trot! 😄

MartyH80 profile image
MartyH80Graduate in reply to Elfe5

Thanks for the advice I'll give it a go, how long was it before you were able to run again? I was getting really into the programme and worried the longer im off the tougher it will be to get back into it

Elfe5 profile image
Elfe5Graduate in reply to MartyH80

For me it took about 3 weeks. It will vary from person to person depending on how bad the muscle pull is.

I know it is frustrating, but you will soon be running again. Also you have learned right at the start the importance of warming up well & stretching. I always do dynamic (moving) stretches before a run and then stretch again afterwards.

While you are waiting for this to heal, have a look at the strength and flex site – lots of good exercises for your feet, ankles, knees etc while you are resting your calf - just don’t do anything that makes your current injury hurt. 😄

The running will wait for you & we will be here to cheer when you get going again. 😄

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