Before you can work on preventing stress fractures, it is important to understand what types of activities are higher risks. Athletes in particular are at a higher risk of developing stress fractures, due to the amount of stress that is put on their lower extremities through running, jumping, leaping, dancing, tumbling, or excessive moving in general. Some occupations may be higher risk factors for the development of stress fractures as well, such as those that require prolonged periods of time walking from place to place or spending time on one’s feet. This is especially true if the workday is spent walking or standing on hard surfaces, such as concrete.