May 24, 2000

I have been sidelined from running for eight weeks with a stress fracture in my left foot. I plan on beginning a running program next week. I can't seem to find anyone to give me hints on the best way to return to running. (name withheld)

REPLY: I'm no doctor, and not knowing you and your body I can't give specifics. But here's what always seems to work for me.

Alternate running and walking. Intermittent stress seems less damaging than constant.

Start by running one minute in five, then gradually or quickly swtich the balance (as comfort level allows) to run four/walk one. Continue to increase the run segment, while keeping the walk at a constant one minute, until finally you're back to normal running and can drop the walks completely.

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