Running Difficulties

by Ariel
(San Francisco)

I am 36 and I used to run all my life, but in the last 3 years, during running my calves, knees and ankles feel very stiff and my legs muscles feel very tight that it has become more pain then fun.

I almost completely stopped running because of that and moved to swimming and cycling but I miss running a lot.


Can you tell me why does that happen? Did I just get older?
How can I go back to running again?
Thanks
Ariel



Answer by Dominique:
Hi Ariel,
Thanks for your running question.
I turned 34 today. I don't feel real old. But I feel I am not 21 anymore!
I think this definitely has got to do with getting older. But there are some things you can do, I think.

One of the issues you may have is your stretching routine. I would recommend doing the running stretches I have on my site after each run.

You may also want to consider some cross-training activities like yoga and pilates to get your body to be a bit more flexible and supple.

At 36 you definitely should be able to have years and years and years of running ahead of you, so I would not shy away from getting some professional help as well. An osteopath or massage therapist can do wonders and can tell you what is causing these muscle issues. It may be your posture while you run for example.

If you want to get back into runing, incorporate the stretches I talked about into your routine and look into some cross-training possibilities and/or professional help!
Best of luck with this, I hope you keep on running for years and years to come!


Cheers,
Dominique

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running Training Helpline.



Like this page:


Share this page:


Like this site:


[?] Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
follow us in feedly
Add to My Yahoo!

Helpful
Resources

  • Beginner Running Tips

    Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

  • Running for Weight Loss

    Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

  • Running Training

    The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

  • 5k Running Tips

    The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

  • 10k Running Tips

    The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

  • Marathon Running Tips

    The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




What's New?

  1. The Most Important Beginner Running Tips - All You Need To Know When You Start Running

    running-quote003.jpg
    The most important beginner running tips. All you need to know before you put on those running shoes.

    Read more

  2. Marathon Pacing Strategy - Use These Tips and Tricks to Hit That Marathon Pace Goal

    running-quote-051.jpg
    These marathon pacing tips and tricks will help you nail your marathon pace goal.

    Read more

  3. Treadmill Running and a Half Marathon

    Hello, I took up running 6 months ago and only ever run on a treadmill. Most weeks I run 9km 4 times a week and a fast 5km. I want to run a half marathon

    Read more

  4. What is Better? Running Longer Distance or Running More Often?

    I run for 30 minutes every other day with a 15 minute warm-up and a 15 minute cool-down. On the days in between I walk for 60 minutes. I eventually

    Read more

  5. Running and Calf Cramps - Conquering the Calf Cramp Conundrum: Causes, Prevention, and Relief

    The most common issue that we runners will all experience at one point in our lives is calf cramps. They can be a real buzzkill. Check out this page to learn causes and ways to treat and prevent calf…

    Read more