What is this feeling? (Running question)

I attempted to do a little jogging yesterday and before I got very far my right calf started to feel very tight. As I continued to walk it almost felt as if it would snap if I didn't stop.

It wasn't a pain per se- just a straining.

DH says it was a shin splint, but I felt it on mostly on the outside and back of my lower leg (the calf muscle).

Any ideas on what this is and how to help it? Did I not stretch enough? Is it because my sneakers are old and s*ck?

TIA!

Re: What is this feeling? (Running question)

Sounds like just what you said, your calf muscle was constricting. When that happens in the middle of a run or activity, from what I hear most times than not you are in need of hydration. Try stretching it and down a good amount of water. Good Luck

Re: What is this feeling? (Running question)

When I feel like that during my run I know that my shins will be hurting later. Now I just stop and stretch until it goes away. I've been doing a lot to strengthen my calves and it doesn't happen as often.

Re: What is this feeling? (Running question)

I agree with Robynfs. I had the same thing happen and it was because I wasn't drinking enough water before I ran. I've had shin splints and it was always in the front, never the side or back of my calf. I hope you feel better soon.

Re: What is this feeling? (Running question)

It could definitely have been lack of hydration! I only drank one small bottle of water yesterday before going.

Thanks!

Re: What is this feeling? (Running question)

Calf cramps are almost always caused by dehydration. Drink up!

Re: What is this feeling? (Running question)

also be mindful of stretching them often - tightness in your calves CAN lead to snhin splints, which unmanaged can lead to stress fractures. I've had many stress fractures in my shins (college days) and they started with major tightness in my calves.

so drink up and STRETCH OFTEN!