Week 2 Progress...

[Garysmith_uk]

Like many people on here I have started to suffer with sore shins in week 2, so my second run was fair to say a little uncomfortable. I have taken on board a lot of advice slow your pace (which I think is fairly steady any how), get proper running shoes ( I spent £100 on a pair of Brooks Beast), my thinking is even with the daily break should I continue to run and expect it to get easier.

I really don't want to stop as I am actually beginning to enjoy it, maybe it's just the excess weight I am carrying....

Day 3 of Week 2 tomorrow..., hoping it may have eased a little...

[Hidden]

you can always take an extra day or more break if you want to see how they feel and good luck with the run

[useitorloseit Graduate in reply to Hidden]

Yes until your body is used to the new demands you are making of it, an extra rest day sounds like a good idea. It's not a race - slowly does it, and then it will become a thing you do for the rest of life not just a quick fix.

[MarkyD Graduate]

Try to take shorter, lighter steps and don't 'stride'.

Running more slowly will have the same effect - your steps will be lighter and this will have the desired effect on your shins.

[Lavender1962 Graduate]

Stretching. after a run helps with muscle discomfort. There are some runner's stretches on the NHS c25k site.

[ju-ju- Graduate]

don't give up...keep going, stretching and stay focussed....

[runswithdogs Graduate]

Run like a ninja. Try not to slap your feet on the ground. If you're listening with earphones pull them out at some point and listen to how loud you are hitting the ground.

An extra rest day never hurts either.

[LightDark Graduate]

I found some exercises (plus a few extra days rest) really helped shin splints when I was at the beginning of the programme. Basically going up and down on tippy toes with you feet pointing at different angles - facing straight forward, and inwards, and out. And some where you sit in a chair with legs outstretched and flex your ankles! (I'm not describing very well).#

Did you get a gait analysis with the shoes?

[Garysmith_uk in reply to LightDark]

I didn't get gait analysis no, is really worth doing?

[LightDark Graduate in reply to Garysmith_uk]

A lot of people find it useful, but maybe when you are a bit further though the programme. Or you might find wearing in the new ones you've got will make a difference!

Definitely think about RICE-ing, slowing down more (and more again), stretching more, and doing some leg exercises on your off days to strengthen the muscles.

It sounds like you are doing great so keeping up momentum and not doing damage will be important for you - and enjoying it