Shin Splints
Shin Splints · Exercises

Exercises for Shin Splints: A Runner's Rehab Guide

The exercises that actually fix shin splints — how to do them, how much, and why each one works.

The Core Rehab Program

Do these consistently for 4-6 weeks. Skip the trendy ones — these are the ones with the strongest evidence for shin splints.

1. Tibialis Raises

How: Stand with back against a wall, heels 6 inches out. Lift toes toward shins.

Dose: 3 sets of 20, daily

Why: Builds the front-of-shin muscle that absorbs impact and decelerates the foot.

2. Heavy Slow Calf Raises

How: Single-leg calf raises on a step, 3 seconds up and 3 seconds down.

Dose: 3 sets of 8-10, every other day

Why: The calf takes load off the tibia during push-off.

3. Soleus Raises (Bent Knee)

How: Sit with weight on the knee, raise heel.

Dose: 3 sets of 15, every other day

Why: The soleus carries 6-8x bodyweight while running — most calf programs neglect it.

4. Side-Lying Hip Abduction

How: Lie on side, lift top leg with toes pointed slightly down.

Dose: 3 sets of 12 per side, 3x/week

Why: Weak hips force the lower leg to absorb more rotational load.

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