This post is sponsored by Under Armour through Fitfluential
So last weekend was my What's Beautiful goal race. I wanted to run a 10k and get a shiny new PR.
I didn't do it. Instead I did back to back hikes, first with my son and then with my whole family. I have been struggling with a quad injury since in the beginning of May. I am barely running three miles, 6.2 miles at faster than a 7:10 (PR pace) was completely out of the question.
Sometimes what ends up being beautiful isn't what you don't do like rocking a PR , but what you do instead, how you react to the situation you are in. I amended my goal.
I have been trying to be so patient while my quad heals. Not easy since it is hard to do anything that doesn't involve your quad to some extent and I am NOT good at sitting around doing nothing. Real bad at it actually.
I do feel like it is getting better in slow minuscule increments. Now and then it seems to take a step back and I get discouraged.
Realistically I know no PRs will be waiting for me this year. I intend to return slowly and deliberately to running and build up a steady base first and then return to speed work once I feel like I have a solid base again. I am going to start working on running drills too. I haven't done those since high school track!
Right now I am running no more than three miles with regular walk breaks during the run. It is feeling better, but not 100%.
Since I can't really focus on running right now, I instead found some yoga DVDs, gone hiking, cycling and used my elliptical.
This morning I finally got in a crack of dawn run. They are my favorite this time of year. Something is magical about being in the middle of a run when the sun starts coming up.
Pretty sure my little dog was happy I finally quit being so lazy and took him for an early morning run. I think he loves them too.
So really I am still working toward a 10k PR, just for next year. Strangely the world did not come to a screeching halt just because I can't do races this summer. It also gave a lingering hip issue time to finally heal and gives me more time to spend with my kids.
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| ignore the whole fanny pack thing. it isn't flattering |
That's the best way to do it, amend your goal. You're doing it smart!
ReplyDeleteI am so happy for you that you are staying strong throughout this healing process and doing what is BEST for you and your body. Cheers and hugs to Cola today, too.
ReplyDeleteI've been amending my goals like crazy. But now that I'm slowly getting back to running, it's really fun because Bungee can come for most of my runs that are short and slow. Since I don't have any real running buddies in town, it's great to have her around.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad you're getting better!!
I know it's so hard to get through an injury, but looks like you are learning to embrace it :)
ReplyDeleteI have being feeling much the same way - my 2013 goal was better, faster, stronger....all that came to a stop when I broke my wrist :(
But last weekend I was able to go out to breakfast with my best friend, and I thought what a luxury. I would never normally get to go to breakfast because it would interfere with my training. Sometimes I guess, it's ok to just get a break, whether you really wanted one or not.
I can't imagine being injured (knock on wood), and you're attitude and dedication throughout this period has been amazing and amazingly beautiful. I'm sure that 10K PR will be even sweeter when you get it.
ReplyDeleteI have been on the injured list before and it is no easy feat. You're smart to listen to your body and amend your goals. You'll kick butt and the reward will be even greater! You have a great attitude.
ReplyDeleteSmart, smart, smart! I love that you are slow to return and build a solid base. Too many runners try to come back too quick and make things worse. I admire your perseverance and you goal modifications!
ReplyDeleteI think it's perfectly acceptable to amend goals rather than have them set in stone. I haven't done drills in ages. I sort of like hill repeats b/c they're over with fast.
ReplyDeleteI know this stinks right now but you are doing the right thing and will be rewarded in the end!! Your attitude is a breath of fresh air and very inspiring!! Keep up the good work! You'll get those PR's when you are ready!
ReplyDeleteLove that you got out for an early morning run - I love that time of the day!! You are incredibly fit - nice photos!!
ReplyDeleteYou are right - there is an upside to not running, that we tend to ignore. I think my body enjoyed the first week's rest, I've had more time for other things, and it has been nice to stay inside instead of go out in wintry cold! Still - I'd rather be running! But it's important to think long term rather than short term. Get better soon!
ReplyDeleteEye on the prize, woman! You got this!
ReplyDeleteSarah
www.thinfluenced.com
I need to start doing some speed drills. I feel like I’ve plateaued and really need to push past that.
ReplyDeleteGood luck with the quad!
Glad your embracing it to. I know how hard it can be. As runners we tend to push ourselves to fast to recovery. I love the hiking with your family. I would love it my family would go hiking.
ReplyDeleteA quad injury requires so much patience- you have a great attitude. You'll get that pr soon!
ReplyDeleteSometimes amending our goals is the best thing for us. I am happy to hear that you are able to run a little. That is great news! I am sure Cola loved his morning run and your kids are enjoying extra time with you.
ReplyDeleteKeep up the great attitude! it will take time but I think in the end your body will thank you for all the care and patience!
ReplyDeleteI love early morning runs, too! I'm so glad your leg is feeling better!
ReplyDeleteI have finally gone back to a true base building and I can already tell my body is responding to it. I am doing weekly running drills too... like the caroke (sp?!), quick feet, skips, strides, butt kickers, high knees
ReplyDeleteI like that you amended your goal! You will be back faster than ever. That is one of the good things that comes out of any injury. We come back more determined than ever.
ReplyDeleteI need to change my running goals too:( Glad things are getting better with your leg!
ReplyDeleteGreat attitude Christy! Keep it up. It seems like with this running break you are getting stronger in so many other ways! I am glad you are seeing the good in it!
ReplyDeleteWell said Christy! You have a wonderful attitude and a great plan to build your base up and be able to work on speed again. Praying that you will heal quickly!
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