W1R2 due today, but still very sore- should I attempt it?

[annabel89]

Went for my first run on Monday, really enjoyed it. Recovered well yesterday, but started feeling sore in my shins and ankles. Went out on a night out in heels (I know, I know), and now very sore. I've suffered from shin splints in the past. Should I attempt run two today? Or should I try it tomorrow?

[Greg_M Graduate]

Its difficult to say depends how much it scores on your "ouchometer"!

If its really really sore then I would guess take it easy (maybe a walk to keep the rhythm) but if its just 'a bit stiff' then warm up and stretch a bit and go and if it hurts stop, it hurts for a reason.

You are likely to have lots of stiffnesses and aches and pains if its the first exercise for a while (especially first running) so might just be par for the course; some is not necessarily a cause for concern - just depends how much and you can gauge it best.

[CaroleC Graduate]

I did my first ever run on a Thursday, did not stretch, did not have proper trainers and it was four days before I was able to get out again.

I would wait another day, make sure you stretch after and are your shoes ok?

[Hidden]

If you are wearing similar trainers to the ones you wore last time you got shin splints, you're probably going to get them again. Having properly fitted trainers makes a big difference. That means having someone look at the wear pattern on your shoes, and how you run, and suggesting shoes that correct any excessive rolling of the foot.

I went to see an osteopath about something else, and asked about improving fitness, and what he said about trainers really made me think!

He said most would-be runners tell themselves that they will get some really top-quality properly-fitted running shoes when they have reached some target which to them defines 'a runner' - they can run a certain duration or pace. But by that point, they will have built themselves stronger bones, muscles and tendons and learned to run in a way that minimises strain, and possibly lost some weight. So actually what's on their feet is relatively unimportant, they aren't that likely to injure themselves.

It's new runners who need a shoe that will support their foot, cushion impact and encourage good alignment - otherwise they will get injured, or give up, before they even become a runner. It's like learning to ride a bike - you don't wait until you can ride before you get some stabilisers!

I had gait analysis at a branch of Up and Running - my trainers cost around £40 and I've had more wear out of them than I have out of many pairs of shoes that cost a lot more!

[shelleymcb Graduate]

trainers was the first thing that popped into my mind. I have run for a year on a treadmill with basic adidas trainers & then ventured outside. I developed a sore left shin & went for a gait analysis. I need supportive trainers & ran outside for 20mins yesterday (wk5,r3) & today, there is no pain in my legs.

definately get new shoes fitted. if you have run before then you are likely to stick at it & this is the best investment ever.

if you dont feel that your legs will cope with another run yet, Id wait until they feel a bit better. perhaps another day or so.

well done on starting the plan & best wishes for your next run