Running, running, and nothing but running. Sounds heavenly doesn't it? But sadly that way injury lies. If you want your body to be fit for purpose, whether it be nailing your first 5K or smashing a marathon PB, it's crucial to ensure that you

) Real-life stories: how two runners beat back pain Injury-Proof Your Back: five sets of everyday tips to stay pain-free Curls and superheroes : back-strengthening exercises

Q I’m an overweight beginner who can now run three to four miles every other day at a steady 10 minute/mile pace. But a few years ago I suffered fallen arches, which caused quite considerable pain. My GP recommended arch supports, which I stopped using when the pain diminished. ...

In the mid-1970s, Runner's World Medical Editor George Sheehan, M.D., confirmed that he was hardly the only runner beset by injuries: a poll of the magazine's readers revealed that 60 per cent reported chronic problems. To describe himself

. These injuries usually come after a burst of speed, and with a popping sound or sensation. Overtraining, forceful stretching, excessive speedwork or speedwork without a proper warm-up can strain a muscle. Strength imbalances also pose a threat. If the fronts

, or to go uphill.SignsLittle difficulty is usually experienced in the diagnosis of a quadriceps tear. There is pain at the site of injury and any resistance to straightening of the knee will cause pain at this site. As a bruise forms, there is thickening

with weeks in plaster before I can do any exercise at all. When the cast comes off, how can I build up my cardiovascular fitness levels and calf-muscle strength, and when can I make my agonisingly anticipated running comeback?A Ankle fractures typically take

. These injuries usually come after a burst of speed, and with a popping sound or sensation. Overtraining, forceful stretching, excessive speedwork or speedwork without a proper warm-up can strain a muscle. Strength imbalances also pose a threat. If the fronts

can cut your risk of amber turning red by dropping mileage, reducing intensity or starting treatment. You can dodge red lights altogether with a proactive long-term injury prevention strategy, including strength training, stretching and regular foam

of microtrauma that occur during any exercise is reduced, and you risk injury. If muscles are consistently going into protective spasm, it is probably for a specific reason. Often it is an attempt to limit movement at a joint because it’s inflamed or painful