Shin splints

[pete92]

As i started to play tennis more competitively i started to run more on the treadmill. I used to run a few miles on it every day. All of a sudden i noticed a slight pain in my shins when i ran.

I was stupid and carried on running every day and now i cannot run more than 500 meters on the treadmill. I dont know if this is definitely shin splints or not, but its painful. The only time it doesnt hurt is when im actually playing tennis, but i know that to keep my endurance up i need to train off court as well.

Will regular workouts on an exercise bike be good for m endurance? especially as it would be better on the shins and joints.

Would very fast walking on the treadmill still help me a lot? I've tried it and it is a lot less painful.

Could anyone recommend any other ways of keeping fit apart from distance running?

[SystemicAnomaly]

Yes, fast walking with long strides can be very beneficial. Walking up a moderate grade can burn more calories/hour. Exercise bikes & elliptical trainer (especially the ones that also work the arms) are excellent for endurance training and also for interval training.

Make sure that your shoes are not worn out. Worn shoes can contribute to shin splints. I've also noticed that some shoe models are more likely to produce shin splints than others. You might also need to see a foot specialist to see if you need orthotics to minimize foot or leg injuries.

[pete92]

Ok thanks for the advice. I dont think its my shoes. As soon as the pain started to get worse i tried all different types of shoes, tennis shoes, running trainers etc.

Ill get goin on the fast walking and bike training right away!

[SystemicAnomaly]

Even tho' the problem appears to be independent of the pair of shoes that you use, it is probably still a good idea to see a foot specialist to see if orthotics will help prevent injuries to the ankles, shin, knees, upper legs, hips, or lower back.

Longer strides will probably help to walk faster with less impact.


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[Fee]

Walk backwards, and try some yoga classes (focusing on the lower body poses). Believe it or not, both will help you. Just walk backwards around the house so you don't get hurt and people don't think you're crazy. :)

[pete92]

Ok Thanks. Backwards walking sounds strange, but its worth a try :D

Better be careful not to hurt myself doing that though!