SeCsTaC

Hey guys, It's summer time and I'm going to start running every day really soon. Just waiting for my running shoes to come in. Anyways, I was curious if running can help increase your calve size, because right now there really skinny, they almost qualify as chicken legs =(

TSX CSI

I am not too sure about running, I think that it brings definition more than anything, unless of course you are going to be running with a weighted vest. Try standing and seated calf raises to gain size. BTW what kinda running shoe you pick up?

ccannizz11

As far as muscles are concerned.....

weights = + size

cardio = + definition

wstevens

Distance running makes your legs kinda skinny in general. Lift weights to add size.

michimonster

Since I've been going to the gym everyday my calves look awesome but I'm only doing cardio. No weight trainging for a while

SeCsTaC

http://www.footlocker.com/catalog/pr...ther&id=0&mvp=

or

http://www.footlocker.com/catalog/pr...odel_nbr=61634

I can't decide, if i get the first one it's only 80 bucks + theres a 15% off coupon, but the 2nd one looks sexy and they're running shoes.


So running will just make it look more tone? I don't have access to any weights, any good at home excercises?

SPUDMTN

Gonna stick with what the others have said--running/jogging only brings tone...no added mass. Who cares if you got chicken legs. They'll "correct" themselves over time. Don't rush it.

BTW...I'd recommend a Saucony shoe. They make only running/jogging/walking shoes and are some of the best when rated by jogging/running magazines. I have a pair of Saucony and I love them (and I jog five days a week). Yeah, you may want to wear the Nike's when your not jogging, as well, but I'd suggest buying a pair of dedicated jogging shoes if you're gettin' serious about it.

Good-luck with the purchase and the commitment. For motivation, I'll provide a fitness fun-fact: I believe it is 80% of those who start a fitness regiment drop out within the first six-months. Stick with it...it can be addicting. I know I am addicted.

T_Rutl

uphill runs and stair-laps will add some to them....i'm in the same boat as you as far as calves and that has helped along with standard exercises

SeCsTaC

Thx for the tips everybody.

Spud, could you recommend a pair of Sauconys? All I'll be doing is jogging around the park near my house.

fdl

I dont think running makes your calves bigger. I think biking is better for calves.

In any case, I think the size of your calves is mostly genetic. But you can add some nice definition.

michimonster

Sauconys are hot. I think I'm begining to like them more then my New Balances.

proaudio22

I've got some huge calves...its all from biking. I've been biking since I was 5, it really helps you build your legs.

On running shoes...I just picked up some New Balance 890s with their new sole design. These shoes rock for jogging/running, I like them better than my shox. Sooo friggin cushy.

SeCsTaC

Damn it! I just checked footlocker.com and the closest size they have to fitting me is a 10 (I'm 10.5) Shoe looks pretty decent and it'z cheap too. You think .5 size difference would make a big impact?

michimonster

half a size can make a huge difference. You want the perfect fit. I wouldnt order them online until youve actually tried them on. Unless you dont mind having to send them back and wait for another size. Try holabirdsports too/ They have awesome prices.

michimonster

I meant try Holabird if you find something you like in a store but want a better price http://www.holabirdsports.com/

proaudio22

http://www.dickssportinggoods.com/ They have 10.5 D and 10.5 EEEE listed on their website. Footlocker just looked like they were out of a bunch.

You def need to go try them on in the store tho. You may like the Nikes or something else better. I don't like the Nikes as much b/c it's tight on the top of my feet. The New Balances give me room to stretch my toes around. I like these 890s b/c they are super cushy, and they are totally breathable. The whole toe section is mesh, it even has a vent on the bottom.

Also keep in mind lacing style can make all the difference in the world to any shoe. Check out "Lacing for a better fit" on the New Balance site. I used their tip for heel slippage and it really works.

SPUDMTN

I've got these as well, though they're not my jogging shoe. One thing I like about my Saucony's more, is that they allow for more "roll" off of the toes (i.e., the tread goes further up the two, allowing for a more comfortable jog).

Like it's been said already--don't you dare buy a pair of jogging shoes online without trying them on. That's potential murder. Shoes really make a difference for jogging. BTW...if you have a bad arch, you are going to want to get this checked out as well. I have no arch and need to go get some fitted arch supports made...I've had shin splints lately.

Doom878

I push the pedals down with my heels so I feel more quad than calf. I guess you guys push down with your toes.

JT Money

My brother is your age and he started running track and his calves got bigger.

Doom878

That could be because of natural growth also since teens are still maturing.

Whiskers

My calves are huge. Most likely from carrying around my weight for 34 years.

Billiam

My pudgy ass is probably the last person that should be giving any sort of fitness advice. Regardless, I just wanted to throw skating out there as a way for improving your calves. Back when I was playing inline hockey my calves most definitely got noticeably larger.

T_Rutl

yup....if you've ever used "clipless" pedals....for mountain or road....the cleats always mount on the ball of your foot by your toes

fdl

you shouldnt be pedaling with your heels. You should pedal with the balls of your feet.

Doom878

Thanks for the tips guys.

youngTL

Inline skating will also help (rollerblading). Biking with high resistance will do it too since there's no access to weights. Keep the bike in a low gear that requires lots of effort. Also, holding a heavy object in one hand, and then stepping with that same side foot on a stair, and putting your other leg out of the way behind the one doing the work, do calf raises. Holding something like a big bag of sugar or flour or potatoes works wonders if you don't have weights.