# Causes and prevention of knee pain in athletes > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/causes-and-prevention-of-knee-pain-in-athletes > Updated: 2026-11-01T14:49:55.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Knee pain in endurance athletes, such as cyclists and runners, is frequently linked to improper training loads or equipment adjustments. For cyclists, issues may arise from incorrect saddle height or cleat positioning. Runners often face overuse injuries, with research indicating that previous injuries increase the likelihood of future ones by 62%. Experts suggest that training distances should not increase by more than 5 percent over the previous month's longest distance to mitigate risk. Physical therapists have also identified walking habits that contribute to knee discomfort. These include increasing walking distance or frequency too abruptly, taking steps longer than natural, and uneven weight distribution. Additionally, descending slopes with wide steps can double the pressure on the thighs and knees. Specialists recommend a gradual increase in activity of no more than 10 percent per week and suggest slowing down or shortening steps when walking downhill. ## Timeline ### 2026-11-01: Physical therapists warn of walking errors causing knee pain Physical therapists warn that sudden increases in walking distance, overstriding, and uneven weight distribution can cause significant knee pain and joint strain. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/physical-therapists-warn-of-walking-errors-causing-knee-pain ### 2026-10-30: Common causes of knee pain in cyclists and runners Knee injuries in cyclists and runners are frequently caused by improper equipment setup, such as saddle height, or excessive training loads that exceed the body's recovery capacity. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/common-causes-of-knee-pain-in-cyclists-and-runners --- Cite as: Causes and prevention of knee pain in athletes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/causes-and-prevention-of-knee-pain-in-athletes