calves

[First-time-run]

After about 2-3 minutes of jogging my calves start to burn. his continues all the way through the run (25mins today)

this has been happening for a few weeks now.

I do a brisk 5mins walk to warm up and also stretch before too.

any advice to what is causing this and how can I stop it.

[Instructor57 Graduate]

You say you stretch before you run .Are you doing the Dynamic' stretches, or the 'Static' stretches??

Do not mix them up .

'Dynamic' is pre run and 'Static' is for after run .

Also, what is your hydration like ?

Are you drinking around 2.5 to 3 litres a day , even on non running days ?

Final question, what are your running shoes like .

Are you wearing running shoes recommend after a gait analysis?

[First-time-run in reply to Instructor57]

I'll check which stretches they are. Hydration isn't the best but it makes me feel sick if I drink too much. It's only since week 6 runs so I don't think it will be my shoes as surely it would have happened before?

No I haven't had a gait analysis.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

I would echo the advice of Instructor57 but would lean towards hydration as your problem.

This FAQ Post about hydration explains the crucial nature and also when to hydrate healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Stretching immediately after every run, nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/h... 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.

You will prevail with good preparation.

[First-time-run in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you

[SerialC25Ker]

I have a similar problem! I’ve spoken to various people, including some on here, and for me it seemed to be a strength (or should that be weakness) issue. Historically it just improved over time as I got stronger. In more recent years when I’ve returned to running, I’ve incorporated strength training including calf raises and that’s helped a lot. I hope it improves for you soon!

[First-time-run in reply to SerialC25Ker]

Ok thank you will try that 👍🏻

[kpnuts53 Graduate]

Hi there, I had this when I first started C25K - I found that I needed to use a roller before each run to 'soften' my tight calves, if I miss this step my calves will inevitably start to hurt. I bought a smooth roller rather than a ridged one and simply roll the back of each calf muscle. Good luck, I'm sure you will find what works for you.

[First-time-run]

Thanks, I'll give that a go too. 🙂

[hamit Graduate]

I use a decorating foam roller, cheap and does the job.

[First-time-run in reply to hamit]

👍🏻 Good idea

[kazzos Graduate]

I used to have the same. I started wearing compression socks while I run which have really helped.

[First-time-run]

Thanks will give that a go 👍🏻