Training Is Not Linear
How I’ll go from walking to racing [in an undetermined period of time]
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I ran my first of many miles in 17 days.
Not like a fast mile, but like a mile.
It took me 15 minutes to run a ten minute mile.
I have some work to do.
Over the past 2 and a half weeks, I’ve been very aware of what my body is capable (and not capable of doing). It all started at the end of August on a very non-descript run with Tim. Easy 6 on the schedule, but halfway through, I felt the familiar feeling of a cramp in my right calf.
These are not ordinary cramps.
This is an explosion. Or, at least this time, a near explosion.
They aren’t fun and for some reason, they come on without any notice. I don’t even need to be doing speed work for them anymore.
Hence the 17 or so days away from running (but not from working out). I did take 8 consecutive days of no exercise, then started adding in some cross-training.
*I’m not a savage and I do require full rest - usually 2-3 times per calendar year. And you should too.*
Short-Term Prognosis
I’ll be in pain while I run. I’m going to continue jogging and doing my warmups (including glute work) so that I’m in less pain when I run.
Continue to do multiple days a week of cross training (for me right now that is swimming and the elliptical).
Get treatment to alleviate this pain I’m in.
Because I can’t just lace up and get out for some runs, I need to be patient and remember that my timeline to healthy running will not be linear.
I’m going to have setbacks and side steps, near misses and false starts.
How I’m Going to Stay Sane
Me not running isn’t always fun to be around, but I’m trying my best to be optimistic and enjoyable.
While I’m sidelined from real running, here’s what I’m going to focus on: having fun while training. I’m going to continue pushing the boundaries on my swimming (2,000 yards in one go) and my biking (maxed out at 20 miles). I’ll be adding in hot yoga and the elliptical too.
Sleep & Nutrition
Sleep has always been my secret weapon. When I’m well rested and I take care of my sleep, everything else usually falls into place. When I’m run down, I get sloppy.
And now that the school year is back in session, I really try and focus on eating well and avoiding alcohol. I sleep better sans drinks and I can have as much fun, if not more, without the drinks.
Where’s My Head?
I’m doing my best to stay above the fold. I know that I want to run real bad and I think that’s why I’m so open to doing all of this cross training. I’m hopeful that because I’m staying in shape it won’t be as hard to transition back to running once I’m healthy enough to do so.
Does it ruin some of my fall running goals? Yes, of course. But I’ve been running for long enough to know that there’s always another race to gear up for.
With the right mix of cross-training and therapy, I’ll be back at it in no time. Just you wait.
New Blog Alert:
I’m working on a post about training for middle schoolers. Stay on the lookout for that on my blog: TrainwithMarc.com/blog
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Friday’s Action Plan
Training is never a straight path. There will be bumps along the way. Set realistic goals and continue to challenge yourself and have fun with training until you get back to full strength
What Has My Attention:
Add Striders to Your Weekly Plan
Use your Garmin to Boost Your Workouts
Quote of the Week:
You're in control of your mind. You can decide right now to live a fit, fulfilling life.
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