Perhaps running is not for me

[Upsidaisy]

I started the programme in July 2020 and have never managed to finish it because of various injuries/ problems, including hip and knee pain, plantar fasciitis and shin splints. I came very close to completing the programme and got to week 8 run 3 in March last year before having to stop for several weeks because of shin splints, which has been a recurring problem. I have never given up though and after giving myself time to heal ( up to 4 weeks in some cases), I continue to run a couple of times a week but can’t get beyond 20 minutes without succumbing once again to shin splints. I am reasonably fit, slim and do a lot of hill walking, which doesn’t cause me any problems. I have good running shoes fitted after a gait analysis, always warm up and cool down carefully and have followed all advice in the essential reading section. Should I just accept that running is not for me, or maybe just be content with my 20 minute runs? All advice greatly appreciated.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Do you do any leg strengthening exercises as linked to in the guide to the plan?

Most new runner's issues are caused by their musculature not being capable of handling the impact stresses that they are imposing.

Strong leg and core muscles support the joints.

[Upsidaisy Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Thank you for your reply. I do squats and lunges every other day plus planks and bridges for core strength but I’ll look again at the leg exercises in the guide as there may be some areas I’m not addressing.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to Upsidaisy]

Strengthening muscles and reducing impact solve the problems for most runners.

This article about shin splints may help active.com/running/articles...

[Upsidaisy Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Many thanks, I will read carefully and take the advice on board. I really do enjoy running and will make every effort to overcome these issues in order to be able to continue and hopefully one day actually complete the programme!

[Luna2021 Graduate]

I'd say keep going if you enjoy it, 20 mins is really good. IannodsTruffe looks to have given you some great practical advice below ☺️

[Upsidaisy Graduate in reply to Luna2021]

Thank you for your encouragement! It would be great to graduate one day, but as you say, 20 minutes is bound to bring benefits and is a whole lot better than sitting on the couch, so maybe for me, it will be couch to 3k!