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Hello All!
I just completed w5 r2 and an facing the 20-minute run on Friday morning. I have noticed recently as the runs are getting longer, that my calf muscles are really burning. As I look toward the long 20- minute run, I am wondering if any one would have any advice? I am stretching before and after my runs and the calf burn doesn't seem to get much worse after the first minute or so, it remaIns constant. That being said, I can't believe how fantastic this app is and would never have thought I could successfully run for 8 minutes straight. Thanks for any advice you can give!

Kathy

Calf pain aside, I managed the 20-minute run that presents itself on day 3 of week 5. The weather was perfect for running today and I watched the sunrise and kept hearing the words of encouragement of a running friend of mine who told me, "you are making your body stronger." As I started to feel tired, I thought of those words and kept on. It's very hard to believe that 5 weeks ago, I was struggling through a 60-second run and today I completed 20 minutes!

Hi Kathy

I too suffer with my calves, although this hasn't been a problem since I started this programme. I've found that, as well as lots of stretching, regular yoga practice and trips to my physiotherapist for sports massages have helped a lot. I would also suggest you see a podiatrist or someone else who can assess your running gait to ensure your shoes are suited to your running style.

Well done on making 20 minutes!

This may sound weird, but try to relax your ankles when you run. I have been a notorious shin splint sufferer and I tend to get tense about it when I run - but when I really focus on relaxing my ankles during a run - my calves are NOT sore - not before, during, or after. Ultimately, you want your WHOLE body to be relaxed when you run - but if starting with the ankles will help reduce your pain that is a great place to start! I've been learning and practicing ChiRunning and it has helped my form so much, and in the process eliminating the pains associated with running that always made me stop (or not start at all) in the past.

I'm in line for W5 R3 on Friday. I'm psyching myself up for it!!