WOW, I got an overwhelming amount of support on my last post about my return to running. (or maybe it was just the skirt that everyone was excited about... )Either way, THANKS!
I've spent the last 3 months recovering and rehabbing from a stress fracture in my ankle. During that time I've formulated a plan for my return. Here is what I've come up with:
1. START SLOW: I figured that wouldn't be a problem since I wasn't exactly speedy in the first place, but apparently that means more walking than running in the beginning. So I've gone back to the drawing board. I've been walking 4-6 miles a day and SLOWLY adding back in running. SLOW,SLOW,SLOW,SLOW is the key.
2. CROSS TRAIN: I think all my walking counts, and I've been spending some time in the pool swimming. I've also been focusing on lower body strength training. And what I really should do is take up aqua jogging (note to self).
3. RECOVERY TIME: Obviously it wouldn't be smart to start running everyday. Actually, since I've been off for 3 MONTHS, I'm only running 3 times a week for the next few weeks. Gradually I will switch out those "rest" days with more vigorous cross training days. And then increase my actual running days.
A recent article in Runners World reminded me that I've actually gained a lot from this injury.
Positive side of an injury:
-MUSCLES: (seen HERE) Taking time off finally forced me to embrace strength training, its something I plan on continuing now that I'm back to running.
-REINFORCED LIFESTYLE: of course when I heard I would be off from running/traditional cardio for an extended period of time I was worried about weight gain. However, I used this as an opportunity to really focus on eating well and finding alternate forms of exercise. Instead of using it as an excuse to sit on the couch and get soft, I rededicated myself to healthy living, and managed to lose weight. SCORE!
-TAKING CARE: The injury forced me to put my bodies needs over my desires. Having spent 3 months focusing on recovery means I'm more likely to listen to my body as I slowly return. I'm focused on training RIGHT, I will take care of my body.
Realistically it will take several weeks for me to get back to where I was before, its going to be a SLOW and probably frustrating process but I'm staying positive.
After all... .a little bit of running is better than NO running. :)
Whether you're a runner or not, most of us have faced an injury. What did you learn and how did you recover?
For the runners: any advice on my return?
(enter my jewelry giveaway HERE)