I had a great day Saturday! I was 10 min faster than before and felt great at the end of my walk. I was pushing myself a little. The problem starts later in the day as I was just walking around, normal every day stuff. The front of my shins were a little sore but I started to have a pain in the front in my ankle, right at the bend or on the top of my right foot. The pain subsided over time but anytime I start my training walk it starts again. Mild pain but I wonder if resting will help or if I need to see someone. I REALLY, REALLY want to do the Helvetia 1/2 and am worried about missing my 11 miles the next week. I am in the purple group, slow walker 18 to 20 min miles, 5'4'' 200 + lbs. Any help appreciated.

Stepbystep,

As you sped up you may have extended you stride a little bit, this can cause more work to be done with muscles in the front of the calf and create the type of pain you describe. Stretching is the important to release the tight muscle groups. Also consider talking to Judy Heller 503-282-1677, she has many years of experience and presented at PDXFIT for technique and biomechanics. She leads group walks twice a month for all speeds to assess gait and motion pattern issues. It’s a fun way to learn how to have efficient movement that is best for you and also see in others how to make technical corrections. I would call her to see when the next one is and try to attend it. Judy works closely with the walking AC’s, so she knows what you’ll need. Please let me know how you do, I hope other than this showing up you are having a great season.

Cheers,

Dr. Bryan