After 2 weeks of barely running, of missing a 20 mile training run, of more icing than I’ve done in my lifetime, of a steady diet of Advil, and of daily pleas for calf massages from Scott…..I ran today. And damn, it felt good.
Originally, I had 18 miles on the schedule, but given the fragility of my lower legs lately, I was OK with adjusting as needed. I set a course that would take me 8 miles one way, pass by my house (built in water stop), and then 8.4 the other way. I sought out a course like this for 2 reasons: 1) closer to home if the worst happened, and 2) hill avoidance. I know, two months ago I was seeking out the hills!! But my calves screamed and I listened. So I steered clear of the hills for the most part.
I kept my pace considerably slower than I have throughout this training period and it seemed to work. My first mile felt a little “iffy”, but I figured I had to give my legs more than one mile to shake out. Afterall, it’s been a funky two weeks for them. They’re human too.
At times, the pace felt punishingly slow, but I reminded myself mile after mile that today’s run was more about confidence building than speed building. Speed is part of what got me into trouble in the first place. I was extremely tentative heading out this morning, but within a few miles, I found my mojo.
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| No more time-out!!!!! |
My calves put me in a serious 2 week time-out, and though I tried not to whine too much and take my punishment like a big girl, it’s been a tough time-out to get through. Funny when you suddenly can’t do something; you find you want it so much more….
Glad the time out is over! Hope your calves behave better now!!
ReplyDeleteIt's always best to be kind and listen to your body!!!! Good for you :D
ReplyDeleteGlad you were able to get out there and get some mileage in. Listening to your body is the best advice even though we sometimes don't want to give in. I will let you know what I think about coconut water- didn't think my stomach would take it after the 19 training run this morning though.
ReplyDeleteWoo! Glad you had a good run.... way to run smart!
ReplyDeleteThanks for all your good thoughts!
ReplyDeleteGlad you were able to get out there and run and feel good about it! Thanks for the advice on the problem that I am having. I guess I will take your advice and give the inserts a try!
ReplyDeleteYAY! I'm glad your timeout is over! Smart woman running it the way you did!
ReplyDelete