I posted a thread a few months ago about how my heart rate was really spiking when I tried to run short 2 minute intervals. My shins and knees were really hurting as well.

Someone suggested that I read Chi Running and look at my form. Thank you! Thank you whoever you are. I'll admit that I've only read about half of the book, but reading that much started me on a path of research and learning. I've read everything that I can get my hands on. I've ditched my super motion control shoes for a flexible cross country flat. I've worked hard to change to a midfoot strike (found out I was overstriding and heel striking).

On Monday I was able to run a whole mile without stopping. That may not seem like much to most, but I've never been able to run a whole mile without stopping without pain. I used to get severe shin pain after only about 1/4 mile or less. I ran the mile in 10:30ish and I felt refreshed and able to do it again. I'm slowly building my base so although I felt like I could keep going, I stopped and was very happy about what I had accomplished.

It's funny that running one little mile without pain or struggle makes me actually believe that I could run 13 or 26 or 50 someday. So thank you for your advice. It set me on a path that I'm very very pleased with.