jactong

I hope this isn't too off topic, but since it has to do with running I thought the triathalon thread may be the most appropriate on this BikeForum site.

I use to be a runner, but 3 months ago I started cycling to and from work (10KM each way). I use a hardtail mountain bike for my commutes and I pedal hard so it's actually exercise (I'm always drenched in sweat after getting to work/home).

Today I decided to go for a run and after just 2 minutes in, my quads on my left leg cramped really badly. I had to stop. I walked a bit and tried again but it hurt even more. I don't think it's an injury, I'm pretty sure it's a cramp. But it's been a few hours and it's still cramping and tight. It hurts when I stretch it.

Does anyone know why this happened? Is it because my running muscles weakened over the past 3 months of only cycling?

Ludkeh

I think you figured it out. Strong biking muscles do not equate to strong running muscles. Each activity fires different muscle bundles. To be in running shape, you have to RUN, even if it's only a few MPW. Core strength is hugely important as a runner and can easily be lost. Also, the pounding from running puts MUCH greater stress on your body which you don't get sitting on a bike.

When I'm riding I no longer wear my heart monitor. Gears help my stay in a comfortable heart zone. When I run, I always wear my HRM. It's amazing how how little it takes to peg my HRM on the run. Without my HRM I invariable go at it to hard and suffer the next day.

4157 Linden Ave

I understand how you must feel about your injury.I had some similar experience being an athlete.I would suggest you something I tried as I am preparing for Beginner triathlete NY .When Got some muscle pulled while running,I was in pain but I took some rest and after 2 days i started running and I was really frustrated but I didn't pay much attention to the pain and I kept running and pain vanished after some time.Try it,it works and stay strong.