All you runners out there - need advice

kmfrey

So I am doing the C25K program and I love it.  The only problem is my shins are killing me when I do it.  They usually hurt more during the walking part and only a little during the jogging part.  I am not a runner at all.  So my question is, anyone have any advice on how to make my shins not hurts so much?  TYIA

LittleGus

My best advice is to stretch before going, but more importantly afterwards.  Also, invest in a good pair of running shoes - I'd go to a running store to get fitted.  There is a huge difference between $40 shoes and $100 shoes, trust me

Good luck!!

BlueRidge8

My shins usually hurt the most for the first 5 minutes.

I just got some Superfeet insoles and so far, so good.

 

 

 

JBrianne

Seconding LittleGus. I used to get shin splints but I was running long distances in cross trainers instead of properly fitted runners. They're expensive but worth every penny. I never stretch before, though, as an OT I run with says it can actually hurt your muscles more (they are not warmed up and therefore prone to more breakage) but always have a good stretch after. Good luck!

argonne

Good pair of running shoes.  Sounds like you're getting shin splints, which can be caused by something in your gait.  Go to a good running store and have them fit you and do a gait analysis to determine the best shoe for you.  Be prepared to spend around $100 or more.  It is very worth it to have good shoes!

5de5

JBrianne:

Seconding LittleGus. I used to get shin splints but I was running long distances in cross trainers instead of properly fitted runners. They're expensive but worth every penny. I never stretch before, though, as an OT I run with says it can actually hurt your muscles more (they are not warmed up and therefore prone to more breakage) but always have a good stretch after. Good luck!

Same here...also pay attention to the surface you're running on.  Running on sidewalks/concrete can cause many people to suffer shin splints.  I run on packed dirt, gravel and asphalt for the most part and try to avoid the sidewalk

JhawkCE

Shoes, shoes, shoes.  Can't be stressed enough. 

andrew's wifey

You probably don't have shin splints (yet), the muscle there is probably just really sore.  I'd suggest duck walking as much as you think about it.  All you do is lift your toes up and walk on only your heels.  It'll help protect against shin splints, too- which suck really really bad.

kmfrey

Thank you all!  I have been thinking about hitting up a running store.  I do have decent running shoes but probably need new ones.  I never thought about my gait.  I will have that checked.  Again, thank you for the advice.