I just want to run...

Hi!

I used to have similar issues when I first started trying to run. My right knee would always feel uncomfortable and my left ankle would hurt a lot after trying to run. I also used to get extreme cramping. I used to let all these things get to me and therefore I just told myself and others around me, "I am just not a runner" or "I am not meant to run", and so on despite the fact that I wanted to be able to run so badly.

So, I got my leg and ankle checked out by an osteopath and found out that my posture was causing these problems in my leg and that running would only cause damage.

I refused to believe that at 22 years old I was not going to be able to run. So, I decided "screw that, I can do this".

I started slowly, I got on the treadmill (I recommend starting on a treadmill because there is less risk of injury) and started slowly. I knew about the Couch To 5K but I decided that I wouldn't beat myself up about it if I couldn't keep up with the plan so every time I got on the treadmill I told myself that I would run for as long as I could at a speed I felt comfortable with and that was that.

Sometimes I would even go as slow as jogging at 3.7 MPH for one minute, rest by walking for 4 minutes, and try again. I did this over and over again until I could run the same speed for a minute and a half, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, and so on. I know this sounds like Couch to 5K but the key here is to set goals that are achievable for YOU in the present moment and to not focus on things like "in one month I should be able to run 5K". Instead, focus on "right now, I can run for 1 minute. Let's see if I can go for 2 minutes". Take it week by week and try for an extra minute each week and also reduce your walking rest time by one minute every week --and if you need to start by running one minute then walking for 10, then so be it! You're doing this for you and nobody else so you don't have to answer to anyone except yourself.

Be proud of any accomplishment you make. Trust me, when I first started I was not even able to run a single minute without feeling like i was going to throw up. That was in March. Now, I run 25-30KM per week (5km sessions) and I feel so accomplished. I don't focus on "well, there are so many people who are still better than me". Instead I focus on, "holy *kitten*, just a few months ago I would have never believed that it was possible".

Pain will happen, it still happens every now and then when I push too hard but just remember that its normal to experience pain art first because your body isn't used to being pushed. If you're still concerned, see a doctor. But just remember that you are capable of so much more than you think.

I started by tip toe jogging. It was slow but I was able to finish now I jog 2.7 - 3.1 miles without stopping depending on the area and weather.:flowerforyou:

I used to run and got lazy. The shoes will help BUT you have to run properly, posture plays a great role in how you feel physically. I used to get migraines a lot and it ws due to poor posture, my suggestion would be to find a place that can help with that. Where I live has a store that sells running gear (The Running Room) but they also will help you align your body properly to run without hinderance and pain. I hope this makes sense and is helpful.

how funny.... I own 6 different brands of running shoes... expensive pairs, and everything still hurts.
I now run half marathons and am planning to do a full marathon, but even a 5k sometimes sends my shins into hideous spasms to the point where I can barely walk.
I can only suggest lots of stretching, knee and shin strengthening exercises, definitely focusing on lifting heavy weights has helped me with my knees.
Look into the shin strengthening exercises!

For me its my stomach, while running that hurts the most. Then my legs the following day. I want to become a runner, currently I can only run .25 miles without stopping. Yesterday I ran laps at my local HS track (1 lap = .25 miles), I did 6 laps running, then walking, and back to running. By the end of my 6th lap my stomach was in so much pain, I was in tears!

I'm hoping someone replies about this as I have no idea why your stomach would hurt. Please answer if you know.

Mainly because you have a weak core and running is like doing hundreds of sit-ups at a time. If you want to improve your core, do planks or other isometric contraction hold positions. This pain will go away as your core improves in strength.

Like with anything, to do something new is at first clunky and awkward, once you get used to it you become more autonomous.

That does make sense, now that I think about it. I do have a weak upper body, so I'm sure my core is weak as well. Thanks for the tips. :flowerforyou:

For me its my stomach, while running that hurts the most. Then my legs the following day. I want to become a runner, currently I can only run .25 miles without stopping. Yesterday I ran laps at my local HS track (1 lap = .25 miles), I did 6 laps running, then walking, and back to running. By the end of my 6th lap my stomach was in so much pain, I was in tears!

Don't run in pain is my first suggestion! walk if you have to until you can do it without pain.

I get lower abdominal pains as well usually right below my belly button and across to the hips. My suggestion is to alternate doing a lot of lower ab exercises to strengthen those muscles. Crunches, leg raises laying on your back, and on your sides. Also remember to work on your lower back muscles too.
Good running form requires these muscles to be in good shape when running every once in a while try going for a few minutes while placing your hands palm flat, on your back just above your bum. Run a few minutes like this and pay attention to your posture, this position forces you into good posture so when you start feeling tired switch to this position to correct any slouching.