The main cause of injury in beginners is the mismatch between
the rapid development of the muscles and the slower development
of the bones. In particular, injuries commonly appear between
8-12 weeks after starting training. The most common symptoms are
persistent calf-muscle soreness and discomfort along the border
of the shinbone (shin-splints). These symptoms will usually
disappear in time *if* you reduce the training load for a few
weeks - having more rest days and running less distance. If this
does not work, consider changing your running shoes to a more
shock-absorbent pair, running on softer surfaces (a good idea
anyway) and possibly seeking professional advice. You may have a
gait abnormality such as over or under pronation and supination
(how much your foot rolls in and out during its time on the
ground). Your legs may be different lengths. Sooner or later
Last updated on May 4, 2007 by David Ardley