Well, if you've been following my blog, then you know that I'm coming back from injury. And at first I was beyond frustrated. Ok, I was pretty much border-line pissed at how slow things were progressing. I didn't know whether to give up completely or just throw caution to the wind, say $*&*** this, I'm just going to run and consequences be well you see where I'm going with this. Instead, I tried my best to 'trust the process'. (note to those people who are trying to encourage injured runners, we really don't want to hear this slogan - or the word patience - just sayin')
Instead, I had a little heart-to-heart with my trainer (Personal Design Fitness). I voiced my concerns. She listened, and after defining the difference between soreness and actual pain, she ramped up my training plan a bit with the understand that I had to continue to listen to my body.
So far for long runs I've been able to run 4 hilly miles outside.
.JPG)
Instead, I had a little heart-to-heart with my trainer (Personal Design Fitness). I voiced my concerns. She listened, and after defining the difference between soreness and actual pain, she ramped up my training plan a bit with the understand that I had to continue to listen to my body.
So far for long runs I've been able to run 4 hilly miles outside.
.JPG)
In addition to running, I've also been putting in a lot of cross training. One day I ran 2 miles, did 25 minutes on the Elliptical, 15 minutes on the bike and then strength training. I won't go on and on about my workouts, as no one really wants to hear the dull details, but I'm excited because I see progress.
I was told that I could run 'comfortable with a push' when it came to pace. I'm back to the 9's for a 3 mile run. Fast or slow is relative depending on who you are talking to. But I'm happy with lower to mid 9's for pace at this point.
Tomorrow, I attempt my first 5 mile run. Let's hope the calf tolerates the cold, and that I don't slip down on the snow. We are definitely having the Winter of All Winters here in PA.
But if you are an injured runner, I want to encourage you. Don't give up. Listen to your body. Surround yourself with positive attitudes, realize it will take time, but you will get there. And learn from the process. Learn from your injury. And learn how to let your injury make you stronger.
I am hoping that by the time all of this is over, I will be a stronger (and smarter) runner than I was before.
Exciting news! Feels great to be back doesn't it! It can be so frustrating.
ReplyDeletePatience + persistence = stronger injury free runner :)
That's my hope is to return stronger (and smarter ha)
DeleteYou're doing great! It's all about the time and patience :) You will be back out there and just think, the warmer months will be coming soon for you to fully enjoy!
ReplyDeleteYep, if all goes well, I plan to run a 10 miler on March 30.
DeleteGreat post. Definitely an encouragement! I'm currently working through a long long injury myself. It's good to be reminded that patience pays off. Frustrated but not giving up.
ReplyDeleteYes, DON'T give up! Keep on keeping on!
Delete