Time for new running shoes?

[bobdelt]

So I started running a few months ago and got myself up to 4+ miles.

About a month ago I started lifting, including my lower body, and I haven't been able to run more than 2 miles before my calf muscles cramp up. So I attributed this problem to the lifting.

So I took a week off from lifting, but I still can't run like I use to. I either cramp up, or my legs just give out, or what happens the most, my right foot kind of goes numb.

My shoes aren't too tight or anything. They look in great shape, but they are about 2 years old, but I really only used them the past 4 months or so.

So is it time for new running shoes?

 

[bobdelt]

Also, does anyone have any reccomendations for running shoes?

 

[RKS]

For me Asics and NB have always been good running shoes.

The best thing to do is go to a running shoe store and try them on there. In the Cincy area we have a great shop that measures your foot and analyzes your used shoes and then makes recommendations.

Edit: Could be an arch related issue, shin splint, or even uneven musculature, I know that I was prone to shin splint a few years ago because my calves were way out of proportion from decades of soccer. I did exercise to off-set the calves and used a lot of anti-inflammatories.

 

[Baked]

New Balance are nice. They have a lot of models based on how much you're willing to spend. Visit a shoe shop.

 

[loup garou]

Lots of possibilities, since you mentioned several symptoms. Are you warming up/stretching? Hydrating, taking multivitamins? Also, do you have flat feet? Pronation? Look at the bottom of your shoes, are the inside or outside treads more worn out or is it an even wear?

 

[Goosemaster]

Nike free....love the damn things...

 

[Kelvrick]

Go to a shoe store. To give an actual recommendation, we have to see the shape of your feet and how you hit the ground when you run.

Not sportmart or something like that, theres gotta be a small shoe store near you thats run by runners.

 

[SWScorch]

Most people get 300-500 miles out of a pair of running shoes, and shoes that are too old can cause pain and injury, so it is a possibility. even if it isn't the shoes, a new pair can't hurt. Go to a specialty running store (like Fleet Feet or a local store) and have them suggest some shoes and buy the ones that feel the best.

BTW, your right foot going numb sounds like it could be compartment syndrome, which is when the sheath around the calf mucles becomes too tight and cuts off circulation. It's pretty serious, so you might want to get that checked out. Lifting may have enlarged your muscles and lead to this problem. Hopefully this isn't the case but you can never be too careful.