Neck ache????

[Rosy230973]

The whole of my body has been fine since I started Couch to 5K. However, this week the top vertebrae in my neck are stiff and that is affecting my shoulders. Could it be that my head isn’t used to going up and down? Has anyone else experienced this phenomena?

[snagsboson Graduate]

I suspect you are pulling your shoulders up as you run which is contacting your traps. Try to relax you shoulders and let your arms swing naturally.

[Rosy230973 Graduate in reply to snagsboson]

You may be correct. I’ll watch my shoulders for the next run.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Probably tension.. we do get posts about this many times... try to relax... shake out your shoulders within the runs and your arms... loosen your face and fists... and just take it slowly and steadily and lightly...

[Rosy230973 Graduate in reply to Oldfloss]

Thanks for your advice.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Are you carrying something in your hands as you run?

Everything needs to be loose to run effectively.

Hands unclenched, arms loosely bent at 90° and pumping, shoulders and neck loose.

This guide to posture may help nyrr.org/youth-and-schools/...

Relax!

[Rosy230973 Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I’m doing everything you said. I feel totally relaxed when I run making sure my hands aren’t clenched and my shoulders and arms relaxed as I jog.

However, I do some Pilates loosening exercises before I start each session. I may have strained my neck doing something, but I haven’t been able yet to work out what that may have been.

I’ll look at the guide to posture that you sent me too. Thanks for your help.