After run cramps anyone? : I’ve just finished... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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After run cramps anyone?

SlowRunner46 profile image
SlowRunner46Graduate
9 Replies

I’ve just finished week 5 🎊 and I really struggled to complete the walk at the end. As soon as I stopped running my calves ceased up and started cramping. I’ve had a little cramping there with the shorter walk/run sessions and was hoping it would ease with a longer run. I didn’t struggle with the 20 mins, it was really a case of mind over matter for me, and I’m 100% not going too fast 🤣. Was wondering if I stretch when I stop running and then walk? Any advice greatly appreciated 🙏🏼

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SlowRunner46 profile image
SlowRunner46
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9 Replies
Instructor57 profile image
Instructor57Graduate

Well done on completing week 5.

A great run to get under your belt .

What's your hydration like ?

SlowRunner46 profile image
SlowRunner46Graduate in reply toInstructor57

Thanks. I think hydration levels are ok(🫣). A very valid point that maybe they aren’t as good as I think though 🤣🤣. Will up the 💦 and see if that helps.

Instructor57 profile image
Instructor57Graduate in reply toSlowRunner46

It's a point often overlooked and can make quite a difference, I certainly notice it in my calves first if my hydration levels are not good .And the trick is to be hydrated all the time , many will try and drink a lot before a run and it's really too late .

Take a look at this post .

healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

SlowRunner46 profile image
SlowRunner46Graduate

I wouldn’t want to take a lot of fluids in just before I go as I think I would find that uncomfortable. Not running till Friday pm - operation hydration starts now

backintime profile image
backintimeGraduate

Apart from hydration (which is a big thing) and some stretching out after a run, maybe some calf exercises which are easy to fit in your daily routine (I do mine while cleaning my teeth and while walking the dogs)?

SlowRunner46 profile image
SlowRunner46Graduate in reply tobackintime

Thank you, will give it a go

Teresa1632 profile image
Teresa1632Graduate

Try the hydration route as Instructor57 suggests. You could try a dioralyte or other electrolyte drink before a run. But take well before, and just sip it, not glug it down! Good luck.

Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Some sound advice.. great hydration every day does help... what exercise are you doing for those calves on some of your rest days?

SlowRunner46 profile image
SlowRunner46Graduate

Not a lot of exercise on rest days. Intermittent stretching would prob explain it the best.

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