OK so maybe hills are not quite as good as they seem. At least not for a newbie runner or someone getting back in to running.
Last year (2008), I ran 2 half marathons. After the second one, during a run, I had to stop with excruciating pains in my right shin.
I went to see a podiatrist http://northernhayclinic.com/default.aspx in Exeter who diagnosed me with Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome – more commonly known as shin splints.
This is partly due to my weight and also the fact that I overpronate. He recommended some carbon fibre orthotics, some decent trainers and a lot of rest.
Now that I am training regularly (for me) again, I have started to feel the twinges again. Turns out that too much hill work can be a cause. Today I went for a 2 mile flat run and at the end had no problems whatsoever!
Looks like I am now going to be planning lots of flat routes until the muscles in my legs are a bit stronger and some of the weight has come off. I may need to be reacquainted with the treadmill in the garage as well. Oh joy!
Comments