My legs hurt! *whinge*

[Marsyface]

I'm on week 4 of C25K and I've been getting really sore calves on my last few runs. I took a break of 4 days between my last run and today's run and the pain has definitely eased but it's still there and I'm finding it's all I can think about while I'm running! Is this normal? Is there anything I can do to ease it? I'm really enjoying running and was chuffed today when I managed my two 5-minute runs despite my stupid legs My calves have always been the most muscly part of me because I walk quite fast so I'm surprised that they're being so problematic. Perhaps they're too used to a slower pace

[greenlegs Graduate]

Which bit of your foot do you land on? If you land more or less on the middle of your foot (rather than heel or toe), with your foot under you, rather than out in front, it might help. Or try going slower, and see if that helps! I'm very slow, but haven't had any real aches or pains at all. Hope you find something that works for you!

[cutecub79]

My calves hurt all the time. The more you run the easier it gets. I also invested in some good running shoes which helped

[notbad Graduate]

Do you do stretches at all? Here's a link with a few, you might find the calf stretches useful:

nhs.uk/Livewell/c25k/Pages/...

I went through a phase of tight calf muscles & found stretching helped, also massaging with a tennis ball eased it.

[Saruma Graduate]

I've struggled with aching calves throughout the programme. I've totally revised my running technique as greenlegs suggests which has helped enormously. I also invested in a foam roller which has been really beneficial too!

[Marsyface Graduate]

Thanks so much for all your answers

I suspect my technique is the problem so I'll be sure to watch how I'm running, and I might get some new trainers as mine are sort of generic training shoes and probably aren't made specifically for running.

notbad, would you stretch before or after your run (or indeed both!)?

Thanks again!

[notbad Graduate in reply to Marsyface]

When I had my calf trouble I stretched before and after, I did no where near the full repetitions most advise, just a few minutes, slow, steady and gentle. Now I just stretch as and when I feel the need.

[gdeann Graduate]

Have you invested in a decent pair of trainers? Good luck! Gayle

[Marsyface Graduate in reply to gdeann]

Bought a new pair of Asics today, hopefully they'll help! Thanks