Painful calf muscles and feet

[BlueDee61]

Hi,I'm new to the group but well on my way to completing the couch to 5k. My pace is pretty slow due to my painful calf muscles and feet. My feet feel like they are going to cramp but don't. This has been a problem throughout but as I've got fitter it occurs later on in the runs. I've tried stretching mid run which doesn't seem to make a difference, I keep well hydrated but am quite overweight. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions please?

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate]

Welcome to the forum! We’re a friendly bunch and there’s almost always someone who’s had a similar experience to share what worked for them. How far through the programme are you? Are you taking rest days, and on your rest days are you managing any activity? I find gentle walks or swims really help with my achey legs!

I’ve had that sort of pain under one toe which went away when I changed my shoes with the help of a local running shop.

How are you warming up for and cooling down from your runs? Adding some pre and post run stretches could help. There are some linked in the programme guide here (as well as lots of other hints and tips!)…

healthunlocked.com/couchto5....

You might find working on your strength and flexibility could make a difference too. We’ve got a sister forum with loads of helpful resources to get started with. It could be worth a browse or a post over there?

healthunlocked.com/strength...

Hopefully this will settle down for you. It’ll be great to hear how you get on. Cheering for you! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️🏃‍♀️

[BlueDee61 in reply to MissUnderstanding]

Thanks that's really helpful I'll look into those sites plus look at getting a new pair of running shoes

[MissUnderstanding Administrator Graduate in reply to BlueDee61]

Fantastic. Hope you find something to help! I forgot to mention foam rolling or massage balls. I’ve found both useful on my achey muscles! Mine weren’t expensive (Lidl middle aisle for the foam roller!) but they have definitely helped.

[Instructor57 Graduate]

Hello and welcome !What are your running shoes like ?

Are they running shoes that were suggested following a gait analysis at a running shop ?

[BlueDee61 in reply to Instructor57]

That's a thought. I bought my first pair from a running shop but when they wore out during lockdown I bought this pair online they're the same make but perhaps I need to invest in some new ones. Thanks

[Instructor57 Graduate in reply to BlueDee61]

I would certainly suggest a gait analysis.If your ankles are not getting the support they need then your calves will need to work harder to to try and stabilise them .

Worth checking out 🤞

[BlueDee61]

Thanks that makes sense

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Welcome! You have had some great advice... !

Maybe try these out too... simple and effective..

healthunlocked.com/strength.......

healthunlocked.com/strength......

[BlueDee61 in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks only just seen this but it's a good idea I'll get started on them