Help with calf pain

[Reid1966]

Can get to week 5 without any problems then on last run if the week I get a pain in my calf. I do the stretch except uses after my run but it still happens. After each session I continue walking to get my 10k steps done.What can I do to ease my calf. It is taking over a week before I can try to run again.

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Welcome to the forum and congratulations on your progress, Have you read the program guide ?

It's full of information about hydration , stretching and much more .

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

I would also ask how are your running shoes ? And are they ones recommended after having a gait analysis ?

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

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.

Many people do not hold their stretches for long enough or put enough effort in. Hold post run stretches for 30 seconds and make sure the pull is strong enough to be on the verge of discomfort.

Have you tried massage, foam roller or compression socks........they work for some.

How is your hydration? As a runner you need to drink a minimum of 2.5 -3 litres of fluid each and every day, running or not, as mentioned in the guide.

If it persists consult a GP or physio.

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.

[Over60sRunner Graduate]

Welcome Reid1966 At week 4 I was literally the queen of calf pain and pretty much ready to quit and head back to the couch 😢

The best single bit of advice I was given was to SLOW DOWN and that's when I did covered Niko Niko running which has honestly been my saviour! I also read and reread all the wonderful information detailed above and took everything on board. I drinking at least 3 litres of water every day, even on non running days, and religiously stretch pre and post run and especially post run when your muscles are lovely and warm and you can push that little bit more.

Hope this helps. I totally understand how you feel and I hope you can find a way through this. Just keep on keeping on 👍