Struggling

[Jameseley1]

Half way through week 3 I started getting pain in my right shin! Went to the physiotherapist and been told no running for 4 weeks while I heal. I'm completely disheartened by the news and all the fitness I've built will be gone 😩

[Irishprincess Graduate]

Please don't feel disheartened. The fact you have started this programme means you want to make some changes and any change doesn't happen quickly. There is no hurry to get through the programme and the running will be there when you get back to it. You might not lose as much fitness as you think as you've done the hardest week IMO which is the first one.

Can you do other exercise in the meantime? Swimming, cycling, rowing? You can also use the time to do some strengthening exercises which will give you a head start when you return.

It took me six months to get through the programme for various reasons but It got done and I'm still running, four years on.

This is a tiny blip in your running life. Think long term 🙂

[Slinkymalinki Graduate]

Hi. Sorry to hear that, I understand how you feel. Have just spent 2 weeks resting for the same reason - lots of ice & Biofreeze gel for when I was walking around alot. Irishprincess is quite right - running & the programme are a long term thing & although it's frustrating at the moment, you will get over this! I cycled, walked & did lots of strengthening exercises - swimming is also good & although I've been a bit cautious & slow when starting running again, my fitness level is ok. I'd start back on soft surfaces like grass & tracks & maybe check your trainers are ok for your feet. Mine were ok but also very old so I got a newer more comfy pair & it's making a big difference to my running. Be positive & focus on what you CAN do, not what you can't!