Q: When I train calves, especially seated and standing, my arches get really sore.
I have the balls of my feet on the platform provided, and drop my heels as best I can, but the arches of my feet get so much pain that it causes me to have to stop.
Is it because I could have tight Achilles.???
A: Great question and thank you for asking! Achilles tendon and calf injuries are most common when you suddenly increase the load you place on them. Are you suddenly doing heavier exercises than normal?? It could be very possible that your Achilles are tight because you do not stretch them and or you have weak calf muscles. You need to be sure you are continuing to strength train so you build your calve strength but you need to be sure you are properly stretching and resting, to avoid further pain and possible injury.
To stretch your Achilles tendon, stand facing the wall about a foot away. Place your right foot, so the heel is on the ground and your toe is up on the wall. Gently lean forward for 20 to 30 seconds, as you feel the stretch behind your ankle. Switch feet and repeat. If your Achilles tendon is tight, be careful not to overstretch or you may weaken your already injured tendon. To stretch your calves, stand on a stair or other raised surface with the balls of your feet on the edge and the heels off. Gently put more weight on the heels of your feet, so you feel the stretch in your calf muscles.
You should be sure to stretch your calve muscles in between, before and after your exercising. Remember to go light on your weight and focus on perfect form. See how you do with the stretching and lightening up your load and keep me posted.
~G
