A long-winded update on my calves (Any input is greatly appreciated): I can feel tightness in my right calf even when just sitting today. It is actually lower and towards the outside of my leg, slightly different than the spot that burns while running. I have looked up anything I can find about calf problems while running. Most websites attribute it to shoes, over-use injuries, or relatively weak calf muscles or shins. Since I have had the same type of shoes through 5 pairs of shoes now, and my training has definitely not increased too quickly and I am still only running 30 miles a week, I am thinking that it is due to weakness in my muscles. I am running faster more often these days, so it could have something to do with that as well. Suggestions include calf strengthening exercises including lots of wall push-ups and calf raises. If it is due to other reasons most websites say not to run through the pain because it will only make it worse. Luckily since my comps start tomorrow, I will probably only be able to run three days this week. I plan to go long and slow, and hope to not feel much pain. (Although I did feel pain during an easy run last week). I will try to get on a bike on my off days, but since I get 24 hours to answer each set of questions, I most likely won't be able to spend any of those hours at the gym. But we will see how it goes. I think I had this problem when I was running in college (about 6 years ago...I'm getting old!). I think I blocked it out because I don't really remember the specific pain (although I think it may have been this same burning sensation), all I really remember is having to go to the trainer to get my calves worked on, having one trainer on each leg, and leaving in tears. (Don't worry, I didn't let them see me cry). I'll update on Tuesday when I will be done 1/3 of my written exams! Yay!
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