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