Back ache and running

[Twunk]

Hello! I’m on W8 R2. Does anyone else feel achy around the hips and back while standing but totally pain free when running?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

Assuming that this is an issue that has only arisen since you started running, I would suspect your core strength could be improved. Planks and bridges work wonders.

The other possibility is that your shoes do not provide adequate support.

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.

[Twunk in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you so much. I’m considering taking up yoga to help, and will see if stretching improves the aches (I’ve not done any since I started C25K!

[Over60sRunner Graduate in reply to Twunk]

I can't recommend stretching pre and post-run highly enough! They are almost a religion for me now! It's incredibly important in terms of minimising injury and pain - and you can't beat the increased flexibility either!

Touch wood, I've been incredibly lucky with my back. I've had surgery on my lumbar spine a few years ago and never thought I'd be able to do something as high impact as running (albeit as slowly as a very slow tortoise!!)

Follow the guides to the letter, keep it slow and steady, and you will reach that graduation podium 😁😁😁

[Daisieruns22]

I’m on W2R2 and my back and hips ache until I start running , but by the end I feel the ache , trying to find ways to strengthen lower back .

[Over60sRunner Graduate in reply to Daisieruns22]

Are you also doing strengthening exercises on your non-run days? If not, have a go at the NHS Strength and Flex programme - there's a support group on here 😁

[Rennur Graduate]

Just when you thought running would be so much better than doing other exercises, you discover you HAVE TO do other exercises. I have to force myself to do them even though it does me good, will improve my running and help prevent injuries. I never do enough. Undoubtedly I would get quicker if I did more and more often. Also a foam roller or a spiky ball might help - look them up.