It hurt like hell

[tzc29]

OMG, did my first run on Monday, thought I was going to die. Still recovering, I tell u my legs, calves, infact my whole body ached like hell. Could barley walk and I am still suffering. Although I managed to complete wk1 R1, I am dreading R2 and should have gone out today but my legs just refused. How do u recover from this?

[happierswimming Graduate]

sorry to read you're in pain. Take hot baths and massage the sore areas. Go for a very flat route and go s-l-o-w-l-y. It shouldn't leave you suffering for two days. On your rest days try to get out for a walk and make it as brisk as you can. Movement will help stop muscles from seizing up. Make sure you have very good running shoes and that you are on a soft surface (round the park after this year's rain is ideal) If you like swimming, do that on rest days and remember to stretch after your runs. Let us know how you get on next time

[Nevertoolate Graduate]

I hate to say it, but the suffering is all part of the deal. It does get better! After the first runs our bodies are in such a state of shock that it's normal for you to ache all over. For me the worst pain was in the thighs and groin area. After that I'd say knees, neck, upper arms... need I go on. Happierswimming has given great advice. Pamper yourself and when you do run 2 go very very slowly. The aim in the beginning is just to get through without stopping or falling down. Have faith, this programme works. You'll be amazed how you feel in a couple of weeks. Very good luck.

[Oldgirl Graduate]

The first week was by far my worst week of the whole programme, I thought I was going to die that first run. I agree with happierswimming, all very good sound advice. Try not to sit about if you feel your legs ache and getting stiff, keep moving. A few hikes up and down the stairs worked wonders for me, even though it was hard the first couple of times. It does get easier, promise.

[tzc29]

Thank you all for the great advice, I will definitely go for brisk walks and will let u know how my next run goes.

[mrslazy Graduate]

Stretching is so important after a run, and yes take it easy you don't have to stress just plod. I've plodded my way through, I was just reminiscing how I struggled with running for a minute and never thought I would complete the programme. But it creeps up on you suddenly you realise that things are happening to you and that by the end of the week you can manage better and you do a bit more. Then you realise you are not getting so puffed and that you can just keep going. Then you notice your abdomen tightening up and even if you haven't shifted w eight you are more toned, and that you are less stressed at work or that you need to run cos it makes you feel so good. There will be tough times too but when you manage the next step you will feel such a sense of achievement. Keep it up and use us all for support along the way. We have all been there. Good luck x