C25k & Charlie Horses

This is my 2nd time doing the C25k and I found that the first time (end of 2011) was a great way to get me running. And though I wasn't the fastest -- I was extremely happy to be able to run a 5k. As far as my weight -- its the same as it was when I started C25k back in 2011). This time I'm struggling with Charlie horses in my right leg. Just above my ankle. I've asked a few friends and so far nothing has helped. I'm in Week 4 day 1 of my C25k.

I'm doing about 10 minutes of stretching before and after.
I'm eating 1 small banana every day
I'm drinking between 60-100 oz of water every day.
I'm drinking about 10oz of Powerade beforehand.
I take a multi vitamin (Dr. Schulze Super Foods)
I take a calcium (Brazil Coral Live Calcium)

This weekend I plan on going to a local shoe store to have them help me with seeing if my shoes need replaced or more support.

As my runs get longer I fear the pain will be worse. The pain starts about 10 minutes into the workout (5 minute warm up walk + 3 min run + the walk)

Replies

  • maddymama
    maddymama Posts: 1,183 Member
    Are your doing static (old school) stretching or dynamic stretching (moving stretching)? That's the only thing I can think of, other than possibly needing new shoes. All the advice is to do dynamic stretching before the workout as you are less likely to tear or injure yourself.
  • herillusion
    herillusion Posts: 62 Member
    Dynamic.

    After talking to a friend who is also a runner. She said it sounds more like a shin splint and not a charlie horse.
  • maddymama
    maddymama Posts: 1,183 Member
    Charlie horse is like a muscle cramp (in the back of your leg, calf muscle), and shin splints tend to hurt in the front of your shin. Which do you think it is?
  • herillusion
    herillusion Posts: 62 Member
    Its not the front or the back. It is right above my ankle on the side.
  • maddymama
    maddymama Posts: 1,183 Member
    maybe your hurt a ligament or a tendon?
  • TheBeerRunner
    TheBeerRunner Posts: 2,777 Member
    Check this resource out: http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/sport-injuries/ankle-achilles-shin-pain

    You may be able to find the specific muscle / ligament group that needs a little extra work while stretching. Should help with your pain some. If specific stretches or exercises don't help, have your gait analyzed to make sure you're wearing the correct shoes.