Week 5- Lower Back Pain

[Ningaloo]

I've just got to run 3 of week 5- I've tried 3 times but every time I can't get past about 9 minutes because of severe pain in my lower back. I don't want to lose all the progress I've made - I don't know how much pain is normal but at the moment it's unbearable - any advice?

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate]

Sorry about your back pain stopping you from running any further than 9 minutes, run 2 of week 5 is no longer than 8 minutes so you wouldn't have known regarding run 3 of week 5, all I can suggest is that you delay run 3 until the back pain has gone, if it persists you should go and see your doctor.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

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.

Lower back pain in runners is often caused by poor core strength, so doing a good regime of planks and bridges can make all the difference.

It may of course be another issue that is being highlighted by running and if it persists then it would be best to get checked out by your GP or a physio.

Enjoy your journey.