Blisters!

[Chips28]

Hi,

I have started couch to 5k as I’ve never been so unfit. I used to play all the sport under the sun but if I’m honest have been lazy for 10 years & it’s time to do something about it!

Anyway I’m on week 2 and enjoying it, however have developed blisters on the back of my heels, both of which bleed quite badly when running. Obviously I can put plasters on them but am worried they will just keep reoccurring. Has anyone else had this problem & does the skin toughen up with time?

[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.

Running socks reduce friction and good quality, well fitting shoes will also reduce the likelihood of blisters.

Enjoy your journey.

[Roxdog Graduate]

Poor feet! I wonder if you need different shoes?

[Speedy60 Graduate]

Welcome. It's quite difficult (and expensive) to get decent running shoes fitted at the moment, but good quality running socks might help. 👍

[Chips28 Graduate in reply to Speedy60]

Thanks all, I’ve just ordered some running socks, hopefully they will help compared to the thin trainer socks I have been wearing!

Until they arrive I’ll carry on with plasters... a couple of blisters aren’t stopping me!

[shsoga Graduate]

It sounds like your shoes could be slipping at the heel. If getting a new pair isn’t an option right now, maybe you could try lacing them differently? There are loads of websites that give advice on how to lace your shoes to prevent different problems, this looks like a good one to try -

runrepeat.com/top-10-runnin...

Good luck, I hope it helps - as someone who struggles constantly with blisters on my feet, not just when running, I know how you feel! Compeed are good too, they save me from being in constant pain as I can use them to prevent getting blisters in the first place, not just as plasters when I’ve already got them.

[Chips28 Graduate in reply to shsoga]

Thank you, I did wonder if I didn’t have my laces tied tightly enough. I’ve just re-laced them in a different pattern ready for my next run tomorrow morning. Fingers crossed that helps, I’m not letting a couple of blisters stop me!

[Dtay1978 Graduate]

Good supportive shoes are a must 😊