Advice for a on/off newbie type runner?

Hi Guys,
I’ve been running on and off since I was about 12 years old, and I’m really hoping to make it stick this time. Unfortunately, after a hearty day’s run, the next day when I try and repeat the tas, I feel SUPER sore, and can’t go on. Is there anything I can do diet wise, or over-the counter wise to help fight this? Ibuprofen, Icy hot, or muscle milk? I’m hoping to start kicking some running butt, and do a lot less of the walkng thing.
Thanks for any advice :)

Sounds like you need to give your legs some time to get used to running. Nothing wrong with resting your legs for a few days when you are starting out. Gradually you will bounce back sooner to be ready to run again. You can also go for a walk, that might help you get over the soreness a bit sooner. Icing just after a run is fine, and then if you are sore a few days after it is better to use heat. Number one be patient, start easy and listen to your body.

My advice when starting a new running regimen is to start out slow. It’s the quality of the miles and not the quantity that counts.

Like I have said in my other posts regarding post running soreness, Two main reasons people are SUPER sore the next day and in this order.

1: Went too far too fast. More miles than you can handle for right now
2: Nutrition, & Hydration. These are key!

Unless you are running ultras: I would stay away from Ibuprofen or any other pain relievers and focus on recovery and nutrition. I like to drink 16 oz of chocolate milk with a banana right after my runs. No matter if I am running 3 miles or 20 miles that day. Eat plenty of complex carbs as these calories will help fuel your runs.

Drink plenty of fluids (water) during the day to re-hydrate your body. I keep drinking until my pee is clear in color.

You will eventually figure out what works for you. What may work for me or someone else may not always work for you. So, you will have to play around with your nutrition, fluid intake, recovery time as needed for you.

Congrats on starting your running regimen again!

“run free”

Have you ever been fitted for shoes? It’s amazing how much it helps by having shoes that fit right for the way you run. My shins would hurt before I went to Lukes Locker and had them find some shoes for me.

@Crizomaticus I agree with you. Shoes are very important especially for running – ankles, knees and also your lower back are under big pressure when you run and shoes reduce this so injuries are less frequent.

I agree with arnthorla’s wording, now,you need a pair of fitted for shoes. you can try on nike air max series’s shoes. it’s very light and very suited to walking.