I have been running for about three months and have really tight calves. Sometimes I have to stop repeatedly during a run to stretch them. I run about 30-40 mins, 3 times a week.
A search of the internet suggests that I have "posterior compartment syndrome" - a muscle growing too big for its sheath - which is apparently not uncommon for beginners.
But what do I do about it? I imagine that frequent massage is a good idea. And maybe exercising the other calf muscles (with standing calf raises) will help balance things out? I've recently also gotten some proper running shoes (I did have too-small crosstrainers), so that may help.
Is there anything else I can do to rid myself of this? Will I just get used to running and my calves will adjust with time?
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I tend to get tight calves as well. Recently I bought some sorbothane heel pads and they have helped quite abit. Since taking up running, even though I feel like I do alot of stretching, I can feel myself getting stiffer and calf stretches really hurt sometimes. If my legs start hurting while I am out running, I just tend to walk for abit as I feel a little self conscious stretching outside, and that seems to help a little also.
Take it easy, and include some cross training to work different muscles.
Hope that helps...Good Luck.
Tiny
I'm assuming your shoes are in good nick. I wouldn't rush out and get inserts just yet as you can end up doing more harm than good.
Hope it sorts out soon.
Try to persevere, Karen and I'm sure you'll get through it. Don't make big jumps in distance, and if you miss a few days for any reason, don't go straight in with a longer one because you're feeling guilty!
Good luck!
Another remedy for tight muscles is to get regular sports massage, a very good way to maintain good working muscles.
You should be able to find one in your local area.