Did my first run in over thirty years yesterday morning. My legs are really aching and stiff with lactic acid. Any advice?

[DeliaItaly]

[christian1 Graduate]

Did you do the warm down 5 minutes walk? This helps to stretch your legs a bit after a run. Also lots of people do some stretches afterwards which helps.

Even though I did both the above after my first run, my legs still ached the next day. I think its the shock of the unaccustomed exercise! It does get better as you proceed through the programme.

Well done on your good start.

[happierswimming Graduate]

Try to keep your legs active until the lactic acid has drained after exercise. It's hard if you drive to your running venue but before you get in the car do make the cool-down walk brisk and stretch if necessary. I always have a swim afterwards and then there's the dog walking in the evening which helps to prevent the legs stiffening overnight. Hope your muscles soon get used to it.