How to Train for a 5K

[RedCanny]

Hmmm, 4 weeks might be a bit tight, given that you get shin splints. If you weren't on such a tight schedule for that race, I'd recommend one that uses increasing intervals to introduce (or re-introduce) your joints to the impact of running, like this one,
http://runnersworld.com/article/0,71...9397-0,00.html

It's been working very well for me, this fall - though I admit, I will only run 2x a week, so it's taking longer to get through the plan.

I do not get shin splints - but I did have ACL resonstruction (and a major meniscus trim) in 1996. After the surgery rehab, I continued to run through 1999 or so, but I then stopped running to give my knees and hips a rest (and to try a different sport or two). This year I missed running, so I'm back on the horse (and am 20 lbs lighter, which helps too).

In the spring I attempted a more aggressive plan, like Higdon's, and ended up with some pretty bad knee pain that took me out of hiking as well as running, for at least a month.