Calves still ache...: Hi guys! I was wondering... - Couch to 5K

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Calves still ache...

Dbon profile image
DbonGraduate
7 Replies

Hi guys!

I was wondering if anyone else struggles with tight calves during their run and I’d you have any ideas how to combat it?

It’s an on going problem. I’ve tried doing exercises to strengthen my calves, nothing’s seems to work.

I’m a radiographer so I tend to be on my feet all day.

Any ideas and suggestion would be appreciated!

D x

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Dbon profile image
Dbon
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7 Replies
GoGo_JoJo profile image
GoGo_JoJoGraduate

First and foremost, check your hydration levels. Are you getting minimum 2 litres a day, ideally 3?

Secondly calves respond extremely well to rolling with a massage roller. You can even just use a baking rolling pin or even a 1l round pop bottle.

Raise the leg and roll firmly the length of the muscle. You should feel it immediately, and as you persist the sensation should ease.

Also Google how to massage your own calves with your hands 👍🏻😁

Dbon profile image
DbonGraduate in reply to GoGo_JoJo

You are a star.

I’m rubbish at hydration I must admit so that will be the first thing I rectify.

Thank you for your help x

GoGo_JoJo profile image
GoGo_JoJoGraduate in reply to Dbon

Hydration is so important for muscles, water is literally food for them 👍🏻

charswee profile image
charswee

Exact same issue and pain in my achillies. Haven’t found a solution yet and it’s really dejecting!

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

As GoGo_JoJo says hydration is crucial.

This may sway you healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

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.

Spartacus22 profile image
Spartacus22Graduate

I was really struggling too. I also struggle to hydrate well. I have vastly improved with my water intake and use an electrolyte tab in water an hour before a run.

Also the last few weeks I've dusted the foam roller off and been using that pre and post run. If you work out how to use it you can target the right areas that worked a treat my legs feel free

Dtay1978 profile image
Dtay1978Graduate

Yeah, water is something I think a lot of us overlook initially but it’s so important 😊

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