Lower calf ache : Started C25k today. I have... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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Lower calf ache

Glasgowgirl4 profile image
6 Replies

Started C25k today. I have tried this ages ago but hurt both calfs, running on tredmill. Since then calfs ache whenever I run. I warm up, stretch prior to and after run, wear proper running shoes etc. Any tips, hints. I had to stop twice today to stretch the lower calf muscles before continuing. Made it to the end tho. 😊

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Glasgowgirl4 profile image
Glasgowgirl4
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6 Replies
UnfitNoMore profile image
UnfitNoMoreGraduate

Welcome to the forums and back to the plan. How’s your hydration? That can make a huge difference to the calves. Great job getting it done today.

As for tips... have a read of the guide to the plan, it’s full of them! healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

You can do this... enjoy your journey

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

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.

Enjoy your journey.

sally1993 profile image
sally1993

My first run was yesterday, I was really surprised at how I could feel it so much it my ankles/knees/calves. Hopefully if we build up slowly we will be ok, but I don't have any real advice I don't know the answer sorry! Good luck to you! Looking forward to see how you get on x

Papillon17 profile image
Papillon17Graduate

I had aching calves very early on during C25K and I was told it could be a lack of potassium as I felt like I had permanent cramp. I started eating more bananas 🍌 than I used to, a couple a day on lead up to a run and when I got back after. I did also take more fluids and had no more issues after. Not sure if that will help you.

Zoriada profile image
ZoriadaGraduate

Hello, don’t worry I had the same thing when I started. Follow the advice in the blogs and try the NHS stretch and flex program. You’ll be fine.

Els_runs profile image
Els_runsGraduate

Are you drinking enough water on the days leading up to your run?

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