I suffered knee pain/shin splints at wk 3 of c25k also.  I bought new running shoes and that, along with icing after runs, resolved the problem in a few days.  I didn't take a break from the running.

However, the pain recurred after I finished the program.  I was up to 3 miles but had to move to running on pavement after it snowed.  I had been running on dirt paths.  This time, the pain was so severe, I limped 24/7.  I went to a PT who specialized in runners and he put me in orthotics after analyzing my gait.  Also, stopped running and walking, iced and took anti-inflammatory.  I took 2 weeks off. I just started running again a couple of weeks ago and have gone back to the beginning of c25k but am moving through it more quickly and listening to my body.

Good luck - don't overdo it or you'll suffer the consequences!  We have a lifetime to run.

I would rest for a bit and be sure to visit a specialty running store and get fitted for a good pair of running shoes that match your running style. Try a stationary bike and standing on one foot to help strengthen your lower legs to prevent shin splints.

Running slower helps also.

It's entirely possible to have shin splints after just a couple of weeks. Rather than look to NSAIDS (and certainly not "throwing down" the NSAIDS!), I'd focus on strengthening the shin muscles. I've had excellent success with toe-taps:

1) Sit with both feet pointing forward.

2) Tap toes, keeping your heels on the ground, 50 times.

3) Point toes to the left.

4) Repeat step 2.

5) Point toes to the right.

6) Repeat step 2.

This can be done one foot at a time in a standing position any time you find yourself with a free moment. Just be careful if you're behind someone in line; they might think you're rude and impatient.

Good luck with the program!

Don

Hello-

It is more likely just inflammation/muscle irritation and possibly bursitis rather than shin splints.  Your body is getting used to a new activity and you are putting a whole new set of stressors on it.  You need to tweak a few things---first and foremost make sure you have GOOD running shoes.  I tried on 30 pairs at the running store in my town before choosing mine...get fitted by someone with experience they know to look for overpronation, extra stability etc if you need.  If you are running on a treadmill, watch your incline %.  You should work somewhere between 0.5-1.5% for optimal grade.  If you are running outdoors, limit how much you are on the pavement, and watch the hills at first.  A treadmill may be a better place to start, as it flexes with your movement and is less impact for beginnning runners.  Do not take anti-inflammatories before a run; your body may metabolize it quickly as you run and as you dehydrate at the same time, you may put yourself into liver failure.  Ice is great.  It is ok to repeat C25K weeks as your body adjusts to the new activity and stress.  Do not overdo it as you can cause more damage/injury and pain and an even bigger setback.  Add some cross training in there too; strengthen your core and upper body, add another cardio routine like elliptical, spinning, swimming a couple times a week. Good luck and keep at it!  Soon your body will adjust and running should become enjoyable!