Extra rest days- bad knees

[Mollyjazz700]

I am so frustrated, my stamina, breathing wise is fine but these bloody crappy knees and arthritic feet are hurting when I run. I don’t want to give up but I don’t want to make my knees worse.... suggestions please.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

You are doing the right thing in taking extra rest days.Do the knee strengthening exercises linked to in the guide to the plan on a daily basis and strength will build. Also stretch as per guide after every single run.

Being fully hydrated, as per the guide, makes sure joints are fully lubricated and that cartilage is as spongy and cushioning as possible.

Follow the advice in the guide on minimising impact, especially on making sure that you are wearing proper running shoes fitted after a gait analysis done at a specialist running shop, which can make a huge difference.

[GailXrunning Graduate]

Very frustrating. It’s hard, but be very patient with and extra kind to yourself. Follow the advice from IannodaT. If it’s serious and chronic, consult a professional.

Maybe also try thinking in terms of fitting your body’s ability/ capacity to your running? ‘Bespoke’, so to speak. It could mean longer rest periods, much more gentle progress through the programme, which could help your body to adapt and strengthen. I’m come across some people who run only once a week or fortnight - deliberately, in order that running is part of their lives but doesn’t overly aggravate problems with knees, ankles, hips, etc. I hope the issues ease. Best wishes.

[Mollyjazz700 in reply to GailXrunning]

Thank you, I will listen to my body and maybe try Japanese slow running although I’m already very slow

[GailXrunning Graduate in reply to Mollyjazz700]

That’s the method you want. 👌 It really helps manage the problems you mentioned and lessen the impact. Don’t worry about ‘slow’. As we all learn here, there’s always slower!