Running question....

My sister is running a 5k in July and asked me to join her. I'm not much of a runner so I thought I'd start the couch to 5k that everyone here is talking about. I'm doing really good all in all. Just a little soreness, but my quads and hamstrings aren't sore, it is more the outside of my thigh. Is this normal or am I just running funky?

Also, I know someone posted about proper running technique. I can't find it. If anyone else happens to will you bump it for me please!

Thanks All!

your legs are probably fine. Everyone's different. If it becomes pain instead of soreness, then that's an issue. You should talk to a doctor at that point. but if it's just soreness, then you can either just work through it (eventually it should lessen) or do strenght training targeting those areas to increase your muscle strength (note, for running, you want lots of reps with lower weight, you want increased density but not really any increase in muscle size)

here is the site for running form:

http://www.runnersworld.com/article/0,7120,s6-238-267-268-8210-0,00.html

Train yourself gradually. As soon as your body get accustomed to your new active postures you will be just fine. The key word here is 'gradual'.

I'm doing the same thing! At the start of week 3 now. My legs don't hurt the next day like they did when I started, but my lungs are still getting in my way.

It's probably because I quit smoking so recently. They say it takes up to 9 months to increase your lung capacity 50% after quitting. :grumble:

Good luck!

I run 5 miles everyday and do a few 5k throughout the year. I have been a runner (competively since I was 8, however I was a sprinter).....for a very long time. I personally think each person has their own style of running....breathing, pace, structure etc....I do think that one should do the couch to 5K it is a great site and also look into some other sites for pointers...you never know you might be running next to Banks in a marathon soon! Me ~ 5 miles is my limit!
Gooduck!

zen

hey, never thought i'd be able to run a marathon and i just completed my third.

with regard to original post....gradually build up to your goal pace, remember to warm up and cool down, stretch after your run, and don't omit strength training from your workouts. it's very helpful.

good luck! you're going to do great! :happy: