Training & Nutrition - Shin Splints when Training.

On top of Riding I am wanting to get back into running as well for Cardio training. I used to play pro soccer so this problem is perplexing. After about a mile of running I get shin splints from hell. I do know that I am no where near the shape I used to be in and wondered if that played a part. Do any of you know of somthing that can get me over the hump with shin splints.?



Nofx.

Rest and ice. Ease back into running very slowly. While cycling, you might want to try pointing your toe down part of the time while riding. This will exercise your calf and shin area.

You also should try to determine if you have the proper running shoes based on your foot type and running style. This is very important. There are three types of running shoes: motion control (flat feet), stability (normal) and cushion (high arch). A good running store can help with the proper fit.

Next, try to figure out which type of shin splint you have, I believe there are three different types ranging from minor to very serious.

As an ex-diehard runner (6 days a week for 25 years), I found that cycling actually improved my physical fitness dramatically when compared to running. I have only been cycling just over 14 months and have lost 42 pounds. You may not want to kill yourself with running.

If you must run, one recommended post injury course of action would be to start by walking a mile then running a quarter mile and then walking a mile. Increase the running portion by no more than 10% per week. If you start running too fast, you can have the a number of different injuries including shin problems. My guess is that has a former pro you may have started too quickly and over stressed your shins. I always hated shin splints even over the knee problems. Good luck.

hey..i know exactly what you are feeling. when is started to run again after couple of weeks off..i got sharp pain from my shins. i didnt know if it was just cramps or shin splits. i eased my workouts and after a week of contanst running...they slowly started to disappear. 3 weeks later..im running 3 miles a day on the treadmill without any pain. if the pain doesnt disappear completley or at least occur further in your workout..maybe you really do have shin splits. im pretty sure what i had was just cramps.

I read in a runner's magazine that one way to strengthen the shin muscles is to walk around on your heels with your toes off the ground.

From what I understand shin splints are caused by your larger and stronger calf muscles, pulling and stressing the smaller muscles on the front of your shins, your leg muscles are out of balance. Stretching your calfs is supposed to help, cycling has caused the muscles on my shins to develop maybe that creates balance, I've never had shin splints though so get the skinny from someone who knows what their talking about.

I have a solution that seems to work. MOVE YOUR TOES!!! The muscles in your toes are connected and if you move your toes enough throughout the day your shin splint problems should be solved. I got this information from my high school art teacher...she is one of the best teachers throughout the east; art does have a lot to do with muscles ;)

So, move those toes of yours
-TVbuster.