Sore legs when running (NOT SHINS!)

[Adders]

On my last two runs, I have managed to keep up a 7min/km pace without really troubling my cardio ability. However, I feel I am being held back by heavy/tired legs and ankles. I used to play football and know what it feels like to strain muscles and its not that. They just feel like lead and even at times numb. On my previous run, I constantly felt like I needed to 'crack' my ankles (which I did at the end and it was quite loud!). Any tips on how to overcome this? I really feel I could run 5k in 30 mins if I can get round this!

[Hidden]

CV fitness improves a lot more quickly than muscle/ligament/tendons - so you just need to keep going and eventually you will see improvement. Cracking ankles doesn't sound good though - are your trainers properly fitted, and also are you doing stretches afterwards?

[shelleymcb Graduate]

13 year old daughter is on week 7 & by week 3 had lots of ankle pain & pain on the front of the top of her legs. she was also complaining legs felt heavy. took her for a gait/treadmill analysis & she needed new trainers with arch support as she rolls into her foot/ankle when she lands. first couple of runs with new trainers were uncomfortable (we have since put that down to using different muscles) & she now has no pain.

also, agree with sarah, stretching can really help. we make stretching after the run part of running