Jogging/Running and Calf Pain

Valsgoals

You mentioned you wanted to get inserts because the cost of getting a good pair is not something you can do right now. You also mentioned you didn't want to go to a running store and waste their time. I completely disagree. I would go there to get their opinion. Heck, sign up for a their mailers. Running shoes are like cars, they have different models coming out all the time, making it necessary to clear out (put on sale) the older models. In the meantime, see what they say, pronate/over/under, etc. They do sell inserts in places like that. Most places like that would rather sell you the shoe but if it is a store dedicated to running they'll likely understand and help you get an insert to hold you over until you can come back for a full set of shoes. I got a running injury and I know it had a lot to do with me temporarily using the wrong shoe. I didn't use that shoe for running so much but cross training. Still it was clearly the wrong shoe. Anyway, after a long time being down I am slowly building myself back up again. Drewd2 is right, you only get one set of legs/feet. Be nice to them. Those foam roller thingies work wonders along with lots of stretching.

FaeryLove18

@ukhobnob1
Thanks for sharing your story. I thought about that the other day, weight that is. I am on a weight-loss journey but to making lifestyle changes too and I wondered if because I'm heavier I'll keep having those extra pains until I really start shedding the pounds. Yeah, I guessed good shoes would be minimum of 100 or more dollars. I've saving for my summer semester and every bit has to go for school. So I'll try to get them then. Right now my shoes are okay and I'm going to stick about a mile only every other day. Hopefully by then I've lost some weight and I'll be able to get some better shoes. But yes, you I think some pounds off will do me good all the way around.

Ms_Chai

I feel that good shoes are a must. I personally like Brooks, and I buy the same type each time. I have found the proper shoe for me. Whenever I try another brand or even a different "support" of Brooks I get a lot of foot and calf pain. Also, I recommend taking your time and listen to your body. If you let yourself enjoy this process of learning to run and building up this new skill, you are much more likely to be doing it long-term. Good luck and have fun!