Running help needed

[EchoElephant]

Up to about 10yrs ago I used to run a lot, about 4 or 5 times a week. And I'd race in a couple of half marathons a year.

But then I had knee problems, so I gave up running and took up other sports that aren't high impact.

With lockdown, I haven't been able to do my other sports, so I thought I would go back to running. My knees are fine, it's my legs that are giving me problems. They just feel like they don't want to run!

I've been running 2 or 3 times a week since the beginning of March, maximum of 5 miles. And every time my legs feel very heavy and it's an effort to keep them moving. I feel like I'm dragging tonne weights around.

I warm up and stretch before every session but that doesn't seem to make any difference.

Has anyone got any suggestions, thanks?

ah good I'm glad the oats were a success!!

I googled this yesterday!! It’s either dehydration or my stride. Because I’d had a long break but found that my stride had become quite small. When I stretched my legs out when I was running it became easier but that requires more fitness 😁

Looking at the stats for my run today, I started off slightly faster than normal but overall I was slower.

I took water with me, which I don't normally do but I now think I should.

Spillinteas that's interesting about stride length. I've tried pushing myself for short bursts and that does seem to loosen up my legs a bit. But then I drop back down to my usual plod.

I think doing some more interval training will help me with this.

Daisydoesnt The oats were lovely, great suggestion
I might take some to work with me for a snack

A couple of suggestions to pitch in - Make sure you’re well hydrated throughout the week, not just a drink before/during/after your run ...and the dreaded foam roller. I warm up aNd stretch religiously but sometimes a foam roller or sports massage is what’s required to release the tension deep in the muscles.

@EchoElephant if you want to pimp up your overnight oats, chuck in a few hazelnuts (or in fact any nuts), some blueberries/ raspberries or even stir through a coarsely grated apple (no need to peel it first). The apple juice stops the grated apple going brown - even overnight!! Nobody ever believes me on that one but it's true!!

Tootles2 aaargh! The foam roller. I dug mine out the other day but haven't used it yet.
And I admit I am probably not good with keeping hydrated as much as I soon

Daisydoesnt Pimped up oats sound great. I have porridge with fruit for breakfast but never thought to have some any other time.