Running shoes?

[dungeon master]

okgo said:

Quick one guys...

Half the reason I have started the running is to become a bit smaller.. Now since starting running just before xmas the muscles in my legs have become more defined, but they are still the same size. Now the issue is I have quite large legs, which from what I can tell don't have much fat on them, but are very muscular (sqaut 170 kg)..

Are they going to get smaller? Or am, I just going to get fitter?

Well you'll get fitter, that's for sure. Whether they lean out or not I don't know.

Are you saying you can squat 170kgs by the way? If you're doing those sorts of exercises you'll never lean them out.

I'd imagine things like opening up your stride or shortening it can have profound effects on the definition of certain leg muscles. All those pacey distance runners have massive strides, perhaps that's something to thing about?


EwanM will be along shortly to give you some good ideas i'd have thought.

[okgo]

Yes, that is right, however I have cut those out now, and purely do weights on the upper body..

[clonmult]

ewenm said:

clonmult said:

I've started (indoor/treadmill) running in earnest this year (about 32km last week, 25 so far this week), but having read this thread it does seem like I'm getting shin splints.

Will a change to more supportive running shoes help? I'm running in a pear of Reebok cross trainers. Or will I also need to try and change my running style?

I'd certainly get hold of a pair of proper running shoes. I'd also try to add some variety to your running - try going offroad for a run at the weekend. Softer surfaces are significantly easier on the legs than treadmills or road.

Edit: If you are doing all your running on treadmills, make sure you've got at least 1% incline to compensate for the lack of air resistance.

Edited by ewenm on Friday 16th January 11:53

We've just had a running shop open in Basingstoke - incredibly useful, and it felt somewhat bizarre running on a treadmill with no shoes or socks, but they analysed my gait, and I've now got a pair of Brooks Switch 2s. Had a weekend of rest on the legs, used a bit of cold spray that seems to have done wonders ...

So back on the treadmill at lunch - will have to take it easier, although these Brooks do seem incredibly comfortable. They feel "right".