The Slow Mile

Injury Prevention

Staying healthy enough to keep running: warming up and cooling down, the too-much-too-soon trap that sidelines beginners, the common early aches (shin splints, runner's knee, blisters, side stitches) and what to do about them, when to rest versus push through, and the simple strength and mobility work that keeps you on the road.

Injury Prevention

9 guides
Injury Prevention

How to Prevent Running Injuries as a Beginner

Most beginner running injuries are preventable. Learn the key habits that keep you healthy and on the road from your very first mile.

July 2, 2026
Injury Prevention

Rest Days and Recovery for New Runners

Do you need rest days running? Yes, and here's why. A beginner's guide to running recovery, how many days off to take, and what to do on them.

July 2, 2026
Injury Prevention

Should You Stretch Before or After Running?

Find out whether to stretch before or after running, which types of stretches help beginners, and how to build a simple warm-up and cool-down routine.

June 30, 2026
Injury Prevention

How to Warm Up Before a Run

Learn how to warm up before a run with a simple dynamic warm up routine for beginners. Get moving safely and protect your joints from day one.

June 24, 2026
Injury Prevention

IT Band Syndrome: What It Is and How to Treat It

Sharp outer knee pain when running? Learn what IT band syndrome is, why new runners get it, and how to treat it with rest, stretches, and a gradual return.

June 21, 2026
Injury Prevention

Why You Get a Side Stitch and How to Stop It

Side stitch running got you hobbling? Learn why side cramps happen and simple ways to stop a stitch while running so you can keep moving.

June 21, 2026
Injury Prevention

How to Prevent Blisters and Chafing While Running

Stop blisters and chafing before they stop your run. Practical tips on socks, shoes, anti-chafe balm, and safe blister treatment.

June 15, 2026
Injury Prevention

Runner's Knee: What It Is and How to Fix It

Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain) explained: symptoms, causes, and a practical fix-it plan with exercises to get you back on the road.

June 11, 2026
Injury Prevention

Shin Splints: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

Shin splints from running are common in beginners. Learn what causes them, how to treat them, and how to prevent them from coming back.

June 7, 2026

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