Calf Tightness ( or stiffness in general)

[jreeds]

I've noticed lately when I run my whole right side is very tight. Usually by 2 miles in I loosen up a bit, but sometimes I can't shake it. Most of the tightness can be felt in my right calf and I feel like it makes me run funny. Yesterday I literally stopped at 3 miles and just shook my whole body, did some stretches trying to work it out.
I will admit I am pretty bad at stretching the majority of the time, but I am trying to work on it. Also, I've never foam rolled but maybe trying that will help?

Anyone have experience with this? TIA!

[tuggyruns]

You hit the nail on the head! FOAM ROLL! When I notice that I am tight, I foam roll before and after running. Also dynamic stretching could be really helpful! www.runnersworld.com/stretching/a-dynamic-routine

[jreeds]

May 27, 2014 7:52:41 GMT -5 tuggyruns said:

You hit the nail on the head! FOAM ROLL! When I notice that I am tight, I foam roll before and after running. Also dynamic stretching could be really helpful! www.runnersworld.com/stretching/a-dynamic-routine

Thanks! I'll pick a roller up this week. oh man that would be so awesome if it helped!

[ktzmoh]

Definitely foam roll, and get a tennis ball to work those muscles out. My left leg was stiff and tight for weeks and for me, it set the stage for a jump with a funny landing and an injury.

Now that I'm easing back in, I'm going to try to do 10 min of super easy slow warm up running, a dynamic stretching segment, and then continue with my run. My PT also told me stretching after a run is important- along with foam rolling of course

[sweetiesparkles]

Absolutely foam roll after your runs! I never stretch before running as it could aggravate things.

[labbie]

Foam rolling and yoga have helped my legs and hips immensely.

Sent from my XT1080 using proboards

[secretlyevil]

What everyone else has said. Neglecting stretching leads to worse things down the road. Trust.

[AAM2012]

May 27, 2014 14:52:59 GMT -5 secretlyevil said:

What everyone else has said. Neglecting stretching leads to worse things down the road. Trust.

Yes. Stretch, stretch and stretch some more.

---signed someone who is on furlough for 3 months due to injury from not stretching. </3

[mrsukyankee]

Yes. And stretch too. I was out for six months due to Achilles tendonitis which was caused by running with overly tight calves. I'm anal about it now as it's the type of injury which can easily come back.

[venice2007]

Stretch, yoga, foam roll or use the stick. It will help a ton!