Quick question for runners

mkcalvert

I'm working on c2/5k and by the time I run my second or third time my calves are cramping and feel like softballs in my legs..I drink lots of water and stretch, but can't figure it out..I'm doing day 1 week 1 until it gets'easy' then moving up..I'm just looking for advice on the cramps...

Keightisgr8

I would look into it being due to needing potassium!

Naomi91

either potassium or you need to drink more water. Drink water before, during, and after a run. not just a sip either. Drink up!!

newjmf

I started taking a potassium supplement and it has helped. You also can trysoaking in a HOT bath afterwards with epsom salt to help relieve the soreness.

anzura

Yep, cramps are usually from an electrolyte imbalance. Up the potassium, but not necessarily high calorie bananas. Look into supplements.

agregoru

Just a thought - next time you go for a run, check how your feet are hitting the ground. I had calf issues because I realized I was running primarily on my toes putting major pressure on my calves. Make sure your heels are hit the ground too.

CharityD

Stretch more! I got one of those foot rocker calf stretcher things (about $10 on Amazon) and it has made a tremendous difference!

carolynmittens

could be your diet - are you eating refined sugary foods before running? that causes cramping. so does a lack of potassium and magnesium, so maybe eat foods rich in those minerals before you run.

JigglyPig

As a side note - the other night I was SHOCKED to see that the two bananas I ate where so many calories! Haha I guess I should have checked first, but WOW! They are much more "expensive" than I thought. I've only been counting calories for a week now, so I guess I'll learn!

nab22

I had the same problem when I first started running longer distances. Have you invested in some good running shoes? You should check out a store where they look at how your feet hit the ground (whether with the fancy treadmill computer things or their eyes) and get shoes that are right for you, especially if you want to enjoy this experience and take up running more seriously!

annastacia10

The potassium supplement suggestion is one I would try if I were you. Also a good stretch for the calf muscles and for the shins to avoid shin splints is to stretch them on a stair. Get on a step and keeping your toes on it let your foot hang off the edge and stand on your toes repeating several times. Calf pain can also be indicative of an achilles tendon issue or knee problem. If you are still experiencing a lot of pain and discomfort you might want to see a doctor. Good luck! I just finished a C25K program and loved it. I have bad knee problems but followed the course syllabus to a T and my knees held up and I really increased my endurance. Good Luck! Hope your calf issues resolve soon!

clioandboy

Hi, you might want to consider going back a step, so walking at normal pace for the warm up, and also for the walking phases then instead of running walk at brisk pace. Follow weeks 1,2&3 like that then recommence, normal pace to warm up brisk pace for walking intervals n jogging in the running intervals, take it easy n build up those calves!!!! I have had no end od calf probs which stop me running regularly, good luck to you!