Half Marathon Training - Leg Pain

[Sutty10]

Hello.

I need advice please. I'm 51 and I regularly run 10k but I wanted a new challenge so I've signed up for a half marathon in May. I'm not a fast runner but I'm comfortable at 6.10 pace. My breathing is good and overall fitness is pretty good as well. My problem is muscular pain in my thighs and joint pain in my hips when I get to about 15km. I warm up properly and warm down afterwards. Can anyone help me please? Do I need to strengthen my leg muscles. Is it dietary? I really want to do this so I'd appreciate as much advice as possible.

Thanks, John

[SunsetRunner · Accepted solution]

Any sustaining pain during activity is a sign that probably you should stop. It may be a sign to see a doctor, too. Don't ignore any pain. I started having knee pain during running. First when reaching further distance then it started appearing a lot sooner. Now, because of the pain, I can barely reach 3km distance so I had to stop running at all. I'm currently waiting to start my physiotherapy. My doctor said that I may not be able to go back to running. Your case seems to be different but if pain appears regular due to activity then don't ignore it. Otherwise, you may be risking even permanent damage.

[Sutty10]

Thank you very much for your reply. I’ll take notice of your advice and arrange to see a doctor if it continues. It doesn’t happen if I run 10 or 12k or less. I’m not used to longer distances yet so I’m hoping it’s nothing more serious than increasing the distance very gradually but I realise that you could be right and I’ll be careful. I really hope you see an improvement when you’ve had physio and that you can return to running. Good luck.

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[Heather-S]

Definitely see a doc!

But you will absolutely want to add in lower body strength training at least twice a week. Everything is connected and your need a strong lower body and core to do long distance running and to avoid injury. 

I’m aiming to run my first half in April and I run 4X per week and do strength three times. I rest one day but it means I double up one day with a strength training session and a run. It’s a lot of work, but I love it. 

Once your doctor clears you, adding in strength training will help, especially for your hips. 

[Sutty10]

Hello Finance Babe,

Thank you very much for your advice. I'll make an appointment to see a doctor today.

Hopefully, once given the all clear I'll follow your advice and add lower body strength training to my routine. I'll speak to one of the personal trainers at the gym and have them work out a programme that will help me.

Much appreciated,
John