One of the many ways forefoot running prevents injuries, like shin splints, is by increasing cadence or step-rate (the number of times your foot contacts the ground per/min). When you land with a forefoot strike (above left) when you run, cadence naturally increases because stride length is naturally reduced, which altogether, are proven mechanical components for unburdening the leg as compared with heel strike running (above right). Landing heel-first when running alters your mechanics in ways that lead to over-striding and reduced cadence, causing the foot to brake longer with the ground, which is largely to blame for most impact-related injuries. Read more here!
