Currently training for my first IM distance race and pulled my calve while running. I only have five weeks until the race. Will stretching it speed up or slow down recovery? Any secrets to a quick recovery?? The muscle is pulled (I feel the pain) high up on the calve, dead center - only about 2-3 inches below back of knee. If you have any helpful suggestions, they would be greatly appreciated.
Initially - REST. With your username, don’t let the devil make you stretch a “torn” muscle (presuming the diagnosis is correct) 
Hi, I had a similar issue with pulled calf muscles. Went to the doctor who couldn’t find anything wrong. She suggested massage. Best $55 an hour I have spent. I was training for a
1/2 IM on 9/13 and the last time my calf popped was 6/5. Took off the rest of June and started jogging on July 1 and eventually built up the miles. I went weekly for massage, deep tissue variety. Legs have felt great, knock on wood. The therapist found some muscle in my calf, which didn’t hurt, that were knotted up. After she was done with them they hurt for 3 days but haven’t been an issue since. She was also able to recommend some stretches to help the process. You’re much closer in to your event than I was but at this point it is worth a shot. Good luck!! John