How To Avoid Shin Splints And Stress Fractures

Engage In Cross-Training

Doing the same exercise all the time often results in overworked muscles and, in the case of too much running, shin splints. Instead of running every day, try switching out running for another workout, such as weight training, cycling, or even swimming. These other exercises will use different muscles, and as such, there will be less of a risk of overusing certain muscles. Besides which, cross-training is proven to increase an individual’s strength and endurance, which means they will be able to run faster and longer than they would without cross-training.

Don’t Forget Breaks

All of the previous tips to avoid shin splints and stress fractures are incredibly helpful and effective, but without breaks, runners will still experience these injuries more often than you might think. Even if you have the desire to run every day to ensure you are maximizing your time spent exercising, resist. Shin splints and stress fractures can stop a runner in their tracks for weeks or even months, which is far worse than skipping a day every so often. Beginners should limit themselves to running three times a week with one or two days of complete rest. More experienced runners can run more often, but there should be a day of rest every week, though the rest day can include slow yoga or light stretching.