Running Update and Question

HI Everyone,

I e-mailed my pcp to ask him about the cramping in my legs and not getting full lung capacity while running.  He replied back that the cramps that I have been experiencing are "generally either from low potassium or calcium level, dehydration or inadequate stretching before a run".  He also suggested that I don't take spironolactone (hypertension medicine) and take extra potassium with me.  He also said that if I am running , then my lungs are definitely very strong, and that I might have exercise induced asthma.  So, I have scheduled a medical appointment to see my dr. so we can discuss these issues in more detail.

Ok, here is my question.  After a race, are your legs sore and if so, how long does it take for you to feel normal again?

Once again, I want to thank all of you for your support, kind words and encouragement.

Kim

It depends how "hard" I go during a race. An Ironman will take me 2-3 days before I feel normal.

A half mary one.

Hi Sherry,

I feel like my normal self today.

Kim

Hi Kim!

My leg pain varies depending on how long the run was and what the hill situation was.  Usually after a 10K that isn't too hilly, my legs will be sore that day but better by the next day.  After my half marathon, they were sore for about 2 days and then felt tired, but not sore after that.

Deanna  :)

Deanna,

Today, I noticed that most of the soreness is gone and my legs are a little tired.   Yesterday, walking down stairs was difficult and I found alternate routes to get where I needed to go.  Today, it is much better; my legs feel stronger and more normal.

Thank you,
Kim 

Deanna,

Today, my legs feel great. Three days to recup isn't bad.   Thank you for replying.  
Kim

Kim,

The soreness gets better with time. I find I am less sore after races now that when I first starting running. I remember I could hardly walk after my first half marathon - my legs immediately started cramping up. Are you doing ice baths after your long runs - they really do help. I couldn't bring myself to do them last year, but I have this year and they do make a difference.

Mary

Mary,

That is my attitude toward ice baths now--cannot bring myself to doing them.  For a quicker recovery, I might have to start.  After my longer runs while practicing, I don't experience that problem.  Maybe because I am going at a slower pace?  I don't know.
I will try it out and let you know how it goes.
Kim

Kim,

I've found it's easier to do the ice baths by starting with a little tepid water in the bottom of the tub and then adding the cold water/ice after I've sat down.  I wear a sweatshirt and sip on a cup of hot tea, which helps convince my head that I'm not so cold.

Cassie