Insomnia

[Smiffytinks]

Hi quick question, so today ran further than I have ever before 13kms. However literally cannot get to sleep !! Can running cause insomnia? Normally sleep like a baby 👶

[HeavyFoot Half Marathon]

Hmmmm. I often get insomnia before a run I might be anxious about. But afterwards? Perhaps lingering adrenaline? Or are you going through the run in your head ?

[linda9389 Administrator Marathon]

I rarely sleep well after a long run. I find my legs are really restless and sort of achy, the opposite of what I'd expect! I usually try to stretch them out as long as I can a few times, then deliberately relax them and focus on steady rhythmic breathing and the heaviness of my legs on the bed. I keep meaning to check if there's anything I can do to prevent it!

[Irishprincess Administrator Half Marathon in reply to linda9389]

I’m the same Linda! I’ve never looked either but I’m sure it’s got to do with the fact our muscles have been overused and are complaining a bit. At least that’s how it feels!

[linda9389 Administrator Marathon in reply to Irishprincess]

That's good to know it'snot just me. Mine sounds very similar - it's not Restless Leg Syndrome as such, just a mild but uncomfortable ache.

[annettebrown Half Marathon in reply to linda9389]

I suffer from this also. Magnesium Spray from Holland & Barrett really helps with the achy legs.

[Irishprincess Administrator Half Marathon]

There has been lots of media coverage about insomnia becoming more common since lockdown, perhaps our bodies are telling us something. But yes, I frequently have a bad night’s sleep after a long run but I never worry about it because I usually have a great sleep the following night 🙂

[linda9389 Administrator Marathon in reply to Irishprincess]

Likewise 😊

[Smiffytinks]

OK thanks everyone 🙂

[SlowLoris]

If you can't sleep get up and go for a run.

[Run46 Half Marathon in reply to SlowLoris]

😂

[Dexy5 10 Miles]

You can try an Epsom salts bath (available in boots or other chemists) after a run. It’s great for stopping your legs aching too. I found it really helped when building up to 10 miles.

Not sleeping for me is usually the night before a run, especially a race 🦋🦋🦋