Originally Posted by diamondcutter34

Absolutely absurd the amount of running the Lowell academy does. Running is the most detrimental exercise on the body. I understand the need for endurance training. This can be done with numerous low impact exercise. Walking, biking, swimming and aerobics are all great ways to accomplish the same results.
We are not training marathoners. More time should be spent on sprints and obstacle base courses. Training recruits in the above motioned low impact exercises will also increase the chances that recruits will adopt one of these exercises as a life long routine. As many of us that have been on the job some time know. Most will not run on a regular basis after graduating.

That being said those of you that will be attending Lowell and are not currently avid runners, you should do the following. See and orthopedic doctor prior to your first day. The doctor will analyze you step and stride. In most cases the doctor will recommend a special sneaker or orthotic to be fitted to your sneakers. This can in some cases be costly up front. Custom orthotics can run in the 300-400 range.
Remember put 100% forward in the academy, dont give up, but dont be stupid either. dont push yourself to an injury that will have you being dismissed from the academy. Good luck