Nearly finished..going backwards!!

[Marcswanphillips]

Hi, I've been lurking and following the advice on the board which has been really useful. I started 8 weeks ago and have stuck to a really rigid 3 run per week schedule and got to 28 minutes quite easily. I recently had to take a ten day break and came back to 28 minutes and was really pleased that I managed it easily, but had ankle pain afterwards. I've tried two runs since, the first I stopped after less than 1km and today, managed to struggle to 20 minutes and 3km. I'm gutted because I'd done so well to get so near to the end and feel like I'm going backwards.

Has anyone else had a similar experience?

I think it's more of a mental than a physical problem probably. Any advice greatfully received.

Thanks!

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Maybe be kind to yourself and ease back into running more gently? Perhaps do the intervals at the start of W6 and see how that feels? I am absolutely sure that comfortable running will return soon.

Don't run on an injury- the advice I have seen is to rest injuries, but little aches and pains don't need to stop you. Good luck 😀

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

We all have our ups and downs and in the bigger context of running for the rest of your life, you have just experienced a blip.....no more.

This morning I had my second run back after an injury. It was slow but thankfully painless. The hills seemed hard and I am aware that my condition has suffered from the break. We all have to accept that we are where we are, in running and life, and find the strategy to move ourselves forward.

Each run is training for the next one.........whether it is good or bad.......there is always something to be learned.

Good hydration and fuelling, a good night's sleep and adequate rest are all essential, along with a positive attitude, to make sure each run works out well, so set it up well and you will sail on through to graduation.

[Marcswanphillips]

Thanks both, been kicking myself for the last few days but probably just need to give myself a break and keep running!