Ouch!

[Em23P]

I’ve just completed my first run of week three and am feeling really proud of myself! But, I’m struggling with pain in the arches of my feet, particularly in the walking sections (a lot like cramp). Is that just my body getting used to actually doing some hard exercise for a change?

[Magellan Graduate]

Well done for your excellent start!

Do you have any different trainers you could wear next time? Some support the feet better than others. When the shops are open again a good sports shop will help you out.

[Em23P Graduate in reply to Magellan]

Thank you! I don’t normally wear trainers so I bought some running shoes online from decathlon. Not being able to try them on probably wasn’t sensible but it’s better than running in doc martens I’m assuming 😂 I’ll head to a sports shop as soon as this is all over.

[JarLo Graduate in reply to Em23P]

A little bit of advice is to look at the manufacturers websites of the reputable running brands like Asics and Brooks etc. Most of them have a questionnaire on them where you will answer multiple questions that will determine your running gait and then will suggest running shoes that suit your needs. You then have the choice to either buy direct from the manufacturer or shop around for a better price. Asics have an outlet online which sells previous seasons trainers at a much lower price so you could find out which model suits your needs then shop for a previous years model if you want to save a few £’s.

[Em23P Graduate in reply to JarLo]

Oh that’s great. Thank you for letting me know. I will definitely check that out.

[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.

Good quality running shoes will probably ease this. The guide contains a link to a post about buying shoes.

Enjoy your journey.

[Em23P Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you very much. I’ll take a look.