Is calf pain normal?

[Charawara]

I went for my first run on Wednesday and was surprised by how difficult I found it. My calves ached for days afterwards and struggled to walk. Is this normal for a beginner?

[H4CS]

Is this week 1? If so you probably went too fast, go as slow as you walk until you build your stamina up, I also think drinking lots of water helps with any aches and pains caused by dehydration, keep going, its totally worth ht

[Charawara in reply to H4CS]

Thank you for your reply. Yes, I'm only on week 1. You're right, I probably was trying to go too fast! Felt a bit self conscious and was trying hard to do it 'right' but need to learn to listen to my body.

[Instructor57 Graduate in reply to Charawara]

Also make sure you are doing the 'Dynamic warm ups' and the post run stretches 👍

[H4CS in reply to Charawara]

There is lots of info and videos by the admin on slow running, and tbh its the only way to keep going once you do the longer runs, its supposed to be at a pace where you can still hold a conversation, I am sure an admin will come along soon with some advice, but I struggled in the beginning and week 9 now and its only been the last week or so my pace is starting to pick up naturally, good luck

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on getting started.

Calf pain is normal for some new runners. Doing it "right" is making sure you can hold a conversation as you run.

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.

[nowster Graduate]

I would suggest you don't run while you have any calf pain. Some discomfort in the joints is expected on starting a new type of exercise. Pain means you've overdone it.