Treadmill Running: Everyday or every other? Shin Splints?

Question

My exercise regiment includes weights 4 times a week followed by 20-30 minutes of running on the treadmill. I usually run about a 5K in that time (I track this with my Nike Plus and I'm a geek about getting my miles). I'm in the Army as well so my goal is a 13 minute 2 mile so I like the treadmill because it helps me focus on my goal and maintain my speed. I feel it takes me above that threshold of what I'm used to running. The problem is i tend to get shin splints. So I'm thinking if I doubled my distances and just ran every other day instead, would this help? Do the shin splints go away after I get used to running a faster pace and longer distances? Or am I possibly overtraining? PLEASE DON'T TELL ME NOT TO RUN ON THE TREADMILL. IT'S MORE CONVIENENT AND I THINK IT TRAINS ME BETTER. I DO RUN LAPS ON A SOCCER FIELD WHEN I CAN WHICH IS A MUCH SOFTER SURFACE. THANKS!!!!

Answer 1

If you are having pain running distance every day, then run distance every other day.  You can run sprints on your off days.  Sprints don't cause splints and are great for improving stamina.

Answer 2

If you have shin splints you need to ice them(only 15 minutes at a time) and you need to let them heal. to stay in shape do some ground workouts and walk a mile every day. If you have icy hot that will help with the pain. try new shoes!

Answer 3

buy two new pairs of shoes and alternate them every day.  shin splints are caused by not having the proper support.