Gina,  your calves have NOTHING to do with your shins....Your calves are on the back of your legs and your shins are on the front...Are you taking calcium supplements?  If so, how much?  I had horrible calf problems with my first marathon.  My coaches thought that it might be a lack of potassium and had me eating tons of strawberries and bananas....However, I read a book called "Strong Women Stay Young" by Dr. Miriam Nelson and she said that if you exercise a lot, too much calcium can result in calf spasms...Ever since, I've taken a bit less, and the problem has gone away...Also, which Fleet Feet did you go to?  I can't believe that they told you it was a shin problem!!!

I did my very first marathon with Team in Training in 1999 when I was 49 -- the Rock 'n Roll in San Diego.  It's been downhill ever since. I'm now the race walk coach for the Annapolis, MD Team. I've done 4 additional marathons (the last one in Seattle in June), have trained at least a dozen teams that have completed marathons and half-marathons, and have raised about $20,000 for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in the process.  I've also seen some of the most beautiful children I know die from this terrible disease during that time.  This is what keeps me going....So, find a goal, stick to it!  You will find no greater pleasure in life!

I walked my first marathon just last Saturday! my goal was less that 6 hours and not be dead last ( or Dead ). I did it in 5 hrs 42 min.

Mandi, THANKS!! my goal was under 6 hrs and not be dead last ...or dead, and I accomplished both, considering my training had been thrown way off and I hadn't slept more than a few hrs a night for the last two weeks, I was very pleased. Now I can't wait to do one that I am really prepared for!

Congrats!  What a great finish!  Wow- and you want to do a half so soon?  You are a goal setter!    Good luck!