weak ankles

[butter1]

Hi everyone,

I recently gave up smoking and I really want to start running to get fit again.  The problem is whenever I start running one of my ankles will give way and I will have to stop.  I have noticed that my ankles do click alot but even if it's something like running over the road one of them will give way.  Does anyone have any ideas why this happens or how I can make it better.

[Loosehead]

Don't know why your ankles click but I wouldn't recomend starting to get fit by running. Running is ok if your body is light and fit but otherwise it's the quickest way to damge your joints. Start off by cycling or swimming until you are reasonably fit. Sounds like your lgs are so weak they can't support the joints so some Leg work in the Gym may help as well. Good Luck and well done for giving up the weed.

[FP]

My son has always had weak, clicky ankles.  The GP suggested that he use a seesaw type exerciser, i.e. balancing with one foot each size of the exerciser to strengthen the ankles.  I am sorry, but I don't know what they are called!

[Ralph]

Hi butter1,
I have to agree with Loosehead. I gave up smoking about two years ago (?) and last summer I decided to start running to get fit. I was surprised how fast my stamina increased and I could run quite far after a few weeks of practice. But it started to wreck my knees. I stick to my bike these days and as long as I push it rather than pootle along, the effect is the same, but without the wear on joints & stuff.

My right ankle also clicks with every step, it always has. I don't know why it does but I'd be eager to find out!

[butter1]

Thanks to all yours answers... I think I might dust my bike down and start exercising that way.  I would like to ride with my dog running by the side but for some reason the bike scares her and she trys to bite my ankles!!!  Does look very good if I'm riding along with a pooch attached to my leg!! lol..

[dmsjps]

I don't know if it's completely true, but I have heard that for 'normal' people (i.e. not athletic types who see exercise as fun-fun-fun and it's their biggest hobby), swimming is the best exercise as the resistance is there in the water to build up your muscles but without jarring any joints, plus it strengthens your lungs, heart, etc as well.