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Calling all running experts. I need your advice...

B

BigToque

Lifer
I've had this problem for years now, but it's finally got to the point where I've just stopped running because of it.

Without fail, within 1-2 minutes, regardless of whether I stretch, or what surface I'm on, or what shoes I'm wearing or how fast I move, my calves literally start to lock up, and I have to stop. I can give it 10-15 seconds rest, start running again and within a minute, the calves start to lock up again.

I have no idea what could be causing this. I'm planning on going to an athletic clinic tomorrow to see if they can figure something out, but I want to hear what you guys have to say first.
 
Originally posted by: Trippin315
maybe you should try to strengthening your legs before running. Maybe they are just too weak.
Click to expand...

My legs are quite strong. That's definitely not the problem.
 
Calves tightening up might be the result of landing on your toes. If you do, try to land more on the middle/rear of your foot. If not, perhaps there is a discrepency between the strength of your calves and your shins? Other than that, not sure. Maybe you're just running too hard?
 
Run through it. What's the worst that could happen? When something hurts while you're exercising, that usually means that you just haven't exercised enough.
 
Originally posted by: LtPage1
Run through it. What's the worst that could happen? When something hurts while you're exercising, that usually means that you just haven't exercised enough.
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No, that would be exactly the wrong thing to do. If you are hurting, stop immediately before you do any damage.

First, make sure you are streching your calves complete. Also, try walking about 5 minutes to get your muscles loose. Finally, make sure you have taken in enough fluids before running.
 
Originally posted by: SWScorch
Calves tightening up might be the result of landing on your toes. If you do, try to land more on the middle/rear of your foot. If not, perhaps there is a discrepency between the strength of your calves and your shins? Other than that, not sure. Maybe you're just running too hard?
Click to expand...


I tend to agree with the bolded part. If you've tried different shoes (meaning shoes for over- or under-pronation, cushioned shoes, stability shoes, etc.) it could well be the way your foot strikes the pavement. Hopefully the people at the clinic you're going to will be able to examine your stride and help you out. Good luck!
 
Look into exercise induced compartment syndrome. I had that with the muscles on the front of my lower leg, and I had to have surgery to correct it.
 
I agree with two recommendations that have already been discredited by others. 😀

For short, sprint-like distances it is best to run on your toes.
For longer distances at an endurance pace, it is best to land on your heels. Just do not run with a long stride since this could eventually cause knee damage. Keep your stride short to continue forward movement rather than slow yourself down with a long stride.

I would recommend breathing deeper to get more oxygen into your blood stream.
It could also help to run through the cramp, if possible.
At the very least walk it off. Do not just stop movement.

Potassium, such as from bananas, is helpful to reduce muscular cramps.
 
Originally posted by: BlinderBomber
Do you have flat feet?
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I recently spoke with a podiatrist and it was confirmed that flat feet can cause the calf muscles to cramp and "lock up" as the OP described.

To fix this situation, you can either visit a podiatrist and be fitted for orthotics that can be put in your shoes or you can go to walmart and purchase arch supports.

Good call, BlinderBomber.
 
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