Lower Leg problems

GoodForNothing

I frequently have to cut back on the amount of jogging I can do due to lower leg injuries (shin splints, sore achilles tendon). I've been making a concerted effort for the last two years now to try and become a better runner, but if I work hard at training for any reasonable period of time I usually have to take a week or more off due to shin splints etc. I've only taken up exercise within the last two/three years, before that I was very unfit and I'm wondering am I trying to take things too fast. Also I'm slightly overweight which doesn't help, I suppose.

For a person who doesn't have all that endurance and strength of years of running in their legs should I be taking every other day off resting (or more)? Are there any specific strengthening exercises that would toughen my legs up? Anyone else encountered similar problems? Thanks for any help.:)

tunney

What I suspect you problem is is your approach to training. You should not start off training hard and then wonder why yuo get injured. RUnning is a impact sport and yuo have to gradually introduce it to your body. Start off slowly - run short distances at low intensities. And gradually build up.

Remember that the key to improving your running is not to overload your system suddenly but to remain injury free for long periods of time and make slow gradual, but collectively significant, improvements,.

davelerave

i've been running for twenty years on and off.i run every third day now due to overuse injuries like yours.i will try and pick it up when i'm better but not until .it's best to have rest days when you're injured and don't increase training.i think shin splints and achilles are related to tight calf muscles but don't overdo the stretching while injured,ice after running