Am I not stretching enough?

I started running about a 1 1/2 weeks ago, and usually at .75 miles I get really tight from the back of my ankle all the way up my calf. I stop and stretch it but that only help for a little while. I'd like to get more miles in or at least run more consistently. what to do?

I do stretch before my run, so am i abnormal or is there something to this? 

I started running not too long ago as well. I noticed similar tightness for a while. Here's some ideas:

I do ankle rolls with stretching (I lay on my elbows, put one leg in the air and point the ankle and roll in and out, 5 each direction). These feel wonderful!

I also decreased my running speed. You may WANT to go faster but since you're just starting out, keep it at a moderate pace. You will get faster soon enough. I start out walking at about 3.5 mph for the first 2 minutes or so, then run. It's a good way to warm up.

Keep the incline at 0. From my personal experience, running on an incline was quite painful.

Finally, I bought new shoes. I didn't realize how much that could make a difference. My new Nikes are like clouds :) I had to spend some top $$$ but it was worth it so I am less likely to injure myself!

 

 Mmm, could be a potassium/sodium inbalance too - muscle cramps can happen for any of a number of reasons ranging from the inexplicable, via the benign, to inherited degenerative neural disorders - if you had Parkinson's you'd probably know about it though. First I'd try going to a specialty running store and getting your gait analyzed by the staff - you'd want shoes fitted to your running style if you're going to be doing a lot of it. Second, have a banana or some other potassium-rich food a bit before your run - and try bigblue's  other suggestions.

 You should also look into joining the rest of the gang doing the no business running workout - if you plan to run a lot, it helps to do a sports-specific strength program to assist you in getting your muscles into running shape :)

I just bought the Chi Running book and it's really good.  Also, for me the first mile always pretty much sucks.  I highly recommend yoga if you plan on doing alot of running.  It probably has to do with your form.  Good luck!

Be sure to stretch AFTER you run. I have been an athlete for many years and post-workout stretching is really important. Hold each stretch for 30 seconds during this time. If you do it consistently, you should notice a reduction in tightness within a week or so.

I never, ever stretch a cold muscle. IMHO, that does more harm than good. I don't even do much after my warm up--just some preliminary stretches (quads, hams, calves). My real flexibility comes on muscles that are very warm and soft. It feels soooo good.