[utgirl09]

I just started the couch to 5k last week, and hope to become a regular runner. Does anyone have any good recommendations for runnings shoes in the $60 to $80 range? What do you use to relieve sore muscles. Icy Hot, Bengay? I don't want to use any pain pills if at all possible.

[beerab]

Roadrunnersports have the best shoes- I'm sure they have some cheaper ones you could buy there- I spend a lot for my shoes there but totally worth it- I used to wear nikes but I ended up hurting my feet from running. Haven't had any issues with these since.

For sore muscles I just do a hot bath and keep it up with the exercising That does help- I don't like to use all sorts of stuff- the soreness eventually goes away on it's own.

[JackieRn]

One of the best things you can do to prevent unnecessary injuries with running is to invest in a good pair of shoes. I wear the Saucony Progrid Ride 2 I believe they're called and they have done wonders for me, I've been averaging 45-50 miles per week over the last month and my knee pain has resolved with new shoes.

When you're new to running or returning to it as I've done several times there can be quite a bit of soreness but the longer you do it the more your muscles get use to it. Stretching can minimize this and icing helps for joints. I've used OTC pain meds and honestly for my more severe injuries like plantar fasciitis etc, nothing has worked like Naproxen (Aleve) I've never really used bengay or ice hot.

[MariaMaria]

There is no one best shoes or even one best shoe at X price. What works for my feet and legs won't necessarily work for yours. Go to a running store and get fitted.

[MBN]

Ditto -- you can't put a price on injury avoidance. A real running store can check your feet and gait and advise you on the best shoe for you. They may cost $70 or they may cost $130. Properly fitting shoes specific to your sport can make the difference between miserable runs and happy ones. Hey, running is still a lot cheaper than most sports!! All you really need are a good pair of shoes and wicking, non-cotton socks and you're good to go.

As far as soreness -- I usually take ibuprophen because it is a pain reliever and an anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce the muscle swelling. Stretching and light workouts help get rid of the soreness faster than resting, in my experience. If you are getting VERY sore, then you may be pushing the program too fast and need to back off and run shorter or fewer days for a while, until your muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints get used to it. The pros swear that ice baths after long runs will help reduce swelling and hasten recover, but I've never been able to bring myself to do that!

[beerab]

Oh to add at roadrunnersports you go and are fitted for good shoes.

[MariaMaria]

Nothing substitutes for trying A versus B on your actual feet IRL.

[GypsyLove]

Oh yes another vote for roadrunner sports!!! I've been wearing size 11 shoes for years because I thought that's the size I was but they fit me correctly and I found out this whole time I'm actually a 10 1/2! I absolutely love my sneakers they are so comfortable and because they are made for running I havn't had any injuries yet (knock on wood)! For sore muscles I just make sure I aways stretch a lot before (warm-up first!) and after I work out and then a very long hot shower later.