Treadmill v outdoors and calf pain

[Nictrip]

I’ve just finished week 4 and have solely been running on the treadmill at the gym. Should I be running outside?

Also, I’ve been getting some discomfort in my calf and other than new trainers (which is on next week’s agenda) I tried running longer strides which seemed to help or did I imagine it? I feel like I barely move my legs when running.

[PMcL1966 Graduate]

I was once told you build up better stamina when running outside. Not sure how true that is mind. I personal don’t like running on a treadmill but I’m guessing it’s each to their own. Do whatever feels right for you to get you running for a solid 30 mins at week 9.

[Nictrip in reply to PMcL1966]

Thank you

[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.

Increasing stride length is okay but does increase the stresses on your legs, so make sure that footfall is under your body, not out in front.

Stretching immediately after every run, 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.

If you enjoy running on a dreadmill, then fine, it is still running but is more like some form of medieval torture to my way of thinking.

Enjoy your journey.

[Nictrip in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thanks for your reply. I’m too self conscious to run outside just yet as I’m overweight and not fit (although I can feel my fitness levels returning)

[Roxdog Graduate in reply to Nictrip]

I ran the first 3-4 weeks on the treadmill in the gym and then moved outside and never looked back. Panic bought a treadmill just before the lockdown, in case, as happened in some other countries, we weren't allowed out at all! I've only used it a handful of times and might sell it to be honest!

Good luck, please don't think about what other people might think - running means you are strong and building fitness so be proud!

[Nictrip in reply to Roxdog]

Thanks for your reply. 7 years ago I ran a half marathon and only ran outside but I was way fitter then. I might give it a go tomorrow

[Roxdog Graduate in reply to Nictrip]

Wow, so you have loads of experience! Good luck

[Nictrip in reply to Roxdog]

Well I only had 6 weeks to train for it as it was a last minute place but I was much fitter then and that helped. Ore kids as well ha ha

[John_W Graduate Ambassador]

There's no rule that says you should run outdoors. There's certainly no 'should'. You do what you want!

I did, like many others here, the whole of C25K on a treadmill. About a month after, I ventured outside and now, 5 years later I still mix things up and the treadmill is an invaluable tool for my running.

You enjoy yourself on your treadmill!