Wk2R2 - completed early!

[esmerice]

I know it says to take breaks in between each run but I was so restless today that I just had to get out. Before I went I took all the pressure off and was ready to just do half a run or even just a walk, depending on how I felt.

My first 10 mins of walking (to the park) hurt my calves a lot, but once I got there and had a stretch I launched right into it and managed to do the whole thing even better than yesterday. It's probably the best run I've had so far, I think due to my mindset going out for the run that I just had so much energy and wanted to run to get it all out.

Sitting down now after, my legs are a little sore but it's a good pain. Really proud of myself and can't believe I'm almost at week 3. Will have a break day tomorrow to lay off a little bit and give my legs a rest.

But, all in all, really glad I started this and I hope it becomes a constant for me. I want to get to the point where I am running every day. I think this may just be the sport for me.

[Mattlad91]

How do u stretch etc as I did mine yesterday and my calf was hurting a bit while running and then after a bit when got home they started to be sore and then had a bath and they have been sore ever since

[esmerice in reply to Mattlad91]

I put one leg in front of the other, back one bent a bit and lean into the stretch. And then I also put one leg up with my foot on the edge of the bench, other leg straight so forming a 90* angle, and touch my toe. I am in no way a voice of authority on this but I find this has really helped me, especially when I do it after my 5 mins walk and before my run.

I've read that calves hurt mainly because they're muscles that haven't been used much before running so push through the pain and keep running and it will pass as your legs get stronger.

[Mattlad91 in reply to esmerice]

Oh ok but I have been putting it off for years as been worried about injuring myself or sumat goes wrong and have to have a op or get told to stop doing what I like doing.. I have anixety etc so I worry alot about things

[esmerice in reply to Mattlad91]

If you're worried about it then why not consult your GP, always a good idea and they might be able to give pointers on staying safe and the right exercise for you. A personal trainer may be able to help with more specific issues like confidence when exercising and the correct form so you avoid any injury. Hope that helps and all the best with your journey.

[Fionamags Graduate in reply to Mattlad91]

Check out the info in the pinned posts. There are links to pre and post run stretches with photos that show how to do them.

[Mattlad91 in reply to Fionamags]

There's loads of pinned posts though

[Fionamags Graduate in reply to Mattlad91]

Here's the link for post run stretches healthunlocked.com/api/redi...

If you look at the FAQs in the pinned posts and How to Run there are useful links in those too.

[Mattlad91 in reply to Fionamags]

Thanks

[Fionamags Graduate]

Sounds like you've really got the bug and are doing great! One note of caution though - we are supposed to run on consecutive days to give our muscles time to go through the process of repair. Take a look at the info in the pinned posts that explains this properly. It would be a shame and so frustrating for u if you pushed too hard, too soon and ended up with an injury. There are plenty of stories like that on here.

Take care and keep on enjoying the runs!

[esmerice in reply to Fionamags]

Yes thank you - I appreciate respecting my bodies limits, hence why I didn't go out aiming to do a full run. But my body responded well to it and felt good whilst running, it was more beneficial for me to run today than to be stuck inside! Thanks for the advice, will keep going to keep the bug alive!