Pinged calf - Send help.

[anthony_jeannot]

Was in the last 10 seconds of the 'jog' section of W3 R2 yesterday when I felt a sharp pain in my calf.

I have followed the R.I.C.E advice and am trying to keep off it; there is no real swelling or bruising and only slight discomfort when I walk.

I'm pretty disappointed because I've been enjoying the program so far, and it took a fair bit of motivation to get started in the first place.

The questions I have are: online advice about how long to stay off it vary so much, is it unrealistic to think I might be able to get back out on Sunday? That would be 4 days after the initial aggravation.

Secondly, for those who have had similar problems early on in the program, do you have any tips on both managing the injury, and the mental disappointment / let down to ensure you stay engaged and get back into it when the time is right?

[Hidden]

I understand your frustration and sympathise. I know how annoying being injured can be when all you want to do is run. You are doing all the right things to rest your calf and it will gradually improve. How long it takes depends on the nature of your injury and if it doesn't improve then do go and get it checked out.

As for returning to running, you are the best judge as to whether you will feel ready by Sunday. All anyone can do on a first run back after injury is to see what you can comfortably manage and then plan from there. You may need to step back in the plan a little or you may be able to continue from where you left off.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

You will be recovered when you are recovered........not very helpful, I know but no two injuries are identical and nor are the bodies that sustain them.

Wait until you are totally pain free and when you start back be prepared to stop immediately if it shows any sign of recurring. Also make sure that you stretch 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, as recommended in the guide to the plan.

Many people do not hold their stretches for long enough or put enough effort in. Hold post run stretches for 30 seconds and make sure the pull is strong enough to be on the verge of discomfort.