Grass to Tarmac. Or the dreaded shin splints. - Couch to 5K

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Grass to Tarmac. Or the dreaded shin splints.

bikergirl profile image
bikergirlGraduate
5 Replies

Since I've been out running with my friend we have been running on roads and tar paths, as opposed to the fields and tracks I used to mostly run on. I've noticed a slight discomfort in my shins and then after when I'm home in my knees, and also my ankles while running uphill or downhill. (Always had the latter, in the couple of years I've been running) I wouldn't call any of it pain more a dull achey feeling.

Well today while running alone, along my old route which is mostly field and a little bit road. My shins started to hurt, not badly but this time I would call it pain, just slightly, so I pulled up to a walk and they were fine, so ran on, it came back, done this a couple of times to the same effect. Just wondering anyone's opinions on this.

My instinct when it first happened was to pull off the path and run on the grass, which I did without realising I'd done it.

Anyone else had problems switching to hard surfaces ? Or does it sound more like the dreaded shin splints.

Fine when walking about daily No aches or pains

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bikergirl profile image
bikergirl
Graduate
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5 Replies
GoogleMe profile image
GoogleMeGraduate

Definitely feel the difference if I run on tarmac and not in a good way.

bikergirl profile image
bikergirlGraduate in reply to GoogleMe

That's good to know. I'm hoping its just the change in surface

bikergirl profile image
bikergirlGraduate

No, not heard of them before ? What are they ?

bikergirl profile image
bikergirlGraduate

Thanks so much for your advice. I have neutral shoes too and have never had a problem until now. They seem to have some cushioning to them but not a lot. I will try them and see if they help on my next run and see how it goes. Also have a doctors appointment anyway next week so will give it a mention while im there.

bikergirl profile image
bikergirlGraduate

Great advice. I am carrying extra weight more than what i used to anyway. that could also not be helping. I will def give the insoles a shot and perhaps not as much tarmac for now and try work up to it.

i know what you mean about your gait changing when your tired, i run completely differently. I dont know how to describe it technically but its not the same as when i set off.

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