Online Running Log

Its my first year running for cross country in high schools. We had summer voluntary practices but I only attended 15 or so out of 28 and took the whole last mounts off. I did not get to run because I was traveling. We had 2 practices so far and they started yesterday. I was just wondering whats good to lessen soreness. Maybe ice or hot water

Personally I have found that going for a really quick warmup run (think 5-10 minutes) and then doing some stretching or yoga before bed really helps me in the next morning. IcyHot and Ibuprofen also help for quick relief. I'll leave you to decide whether this is a good or bad strategy, but I  take Ibuprofen like candy. Before most runs I take 3 or 4 to make the pain go away. 

You are sore because you are out of shape. That's all there is to it, your legs aren't used to running. Don't take anything to lessen the pain, just deal with it. You are not hurt just need to get used to running again.

i agree with ncgreco

This is part of building mental toughness anyway. After really "hard" workouts I love the feeling of soreness the next day. It's not only a sign that you ran your best, but it is also pain you earned. Just listen to your body, sack up, and run easy on days you're that sore.. :P

Ice will do you more good in lessening soreness after practice.



While there's no foolproof method to prevent soreness other than getting in a solid base beforehand, I would also make sure you're doing an adequate cool-down and stretching afterwards. I don't know if you do this already, but you should do a cool-down jog for around 5 minutes after your workout is over, followed up by stretching. It worked for me when I ran in high school-give it a try.