Couch to 5K update and developing runner’s knee

If you follow me on social media or on my blog, then you’ll know I started the Couch to 5K plan again {after a two-year break – due to sore knees!}. And if you caught one of my posts, Learning to love running again after {after 20 years!} then this is a little update. I got halfway through the third week of my Couch to 5K plan when my knees started to hurt. Like, really hurt. Clearly history had decided to repeat itself. However, naturally, as I’m sure we all do when things hurt, we head over to Google. Our trusty internet search engine of endless knowledge! My results came up with everything from Runner’s knee, muscle irritation, cartilage damage etc.

I love running, but running doesn’t love me!

Now, I did have a torn ligament in my right leg many moons ago that has always ended up bothering me, around the knee cap area. That I could deal with. This new pain was different though and hurt so badly that I had to make the very disheartening decision to stop running for a little while. I have to be honest, I was angry, frustrated and just generally fuming about having to stop. Especially when I was feeling amazing, just finding my stride and making it into a 5-day a week evening habit. However, it came to light that perhaps a few other factors were causing the knee pain, on top of the ‘beginner runner’ title. Such as was I wearing the right running shoes? Most likely not! Was I leaning forward as I ran? Yes, but not with a straight back. Hello, delivery of my posture corrector for that! Were my feet landing right? Again, probably not. Who knew there was real science behind running and being able to keep running to reach your overall goal! 

So, I took a week off. Well, it’s been 8 days since I last ran and I miss it. Over the course of the week I have been taking Glucosamine & Cod Liver oil capsules for healthy joints, mobility and to keep my bones strong. I have also been taking anti-inflammatories twice a day too and the knee pain has almost gone entirely. 

Now after finally listening to my body to rest my sore knees, I am almost back to normal but I am also nervous about starting to run again in case it happens again. But I hope as long as I keep taking my vitamins, anti-inflammatories before my runs, then all should be well! I did buy {and try} some leg compression sleeves? However, I’ve only worn them once so I cannot really give any input on whether I have found them beneficial or not, but I will keep you posted!

What is Runner’s knee?

Long story short? Runner’s knee is a common term that can be caused by any number of activities that can cause repeated stress to the knee joint. The pain is in and around the kneecap a.k.a the patella. This can be brought on by walking, cycling, running etc. In other words, going from not running to running five days a week {when you’re an overweight and severely unfit Mum, like myself!}. That will certainly do it! I also read somewhere that runner’s knee is more common in middle-aged woman {hello!} than men. How much truth is in that, I am not sure. But I still found it interesting. 

Tying up my laces again

I am going to be getting back into my Couch to 5K plan by repeating Week 1 {for the 4th time}, no shame in that! And I’m hoping I can keep it up and get back into the swing of it all. I don’t think there is anything worse than wanting something so badly, but getting tripped up by injuries that can swiftly take you out of the game! But I’m going to keep going! 

If you are looking to get into running, check out this running for beginners advice from the NHS. 

Are you doing a Couch to 5K plan? If so, I’d love to know how you’re getting on and if you have any advice for the old knees!!

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