Well...it is not exactly the view from my injury couch...but part of what I have been doing whilst on it!
There seems to be a whole lot of us unable to run currently; because of the heat..or, and I have really noticed this... because of illness or injury, and not just on this forum either... we have casualties on Bridge to 10K and the Marathon forum.
It is perhaps a little more of a worry, the time spent on the IC...when we are first beginning our running adventures...
Wondering how soon we will lose fitness and if we will ever get back to where we were.
I am not saying we get used to it..( and I hope we don't have those many set-backs, that we do get used to it)...but as we get more experienced, we realise the runs are always there, waiting for us!
So... as I have had a tad more time on my hands, ( Another three weeks at least), I thought I might share some of my IC activities with you and maybe give you some ideas to pass the time
( And have a giggle too)
I have not been for a run since...Friday 15th JUNE!!! Oh my goodness... how long ago is that..and before that I had only managed a couple of short runs.. it is a long time... six whole weeks.
Now.. after an MRI today.. I have to wait for another three weeks with no running until my consultant appointment
Fun eh
I have had spells on the IC, quite a few... not running related really, except for the, Tigger and the Bouncy Trainers Incident...
Oh... and the breaking of ribs, and torn intercostal muscles after falling over the coffee table, when getting ready for an October, early morning run.. ( husband told me I should always out the lights on downstairs) !
Then a trapped sciatic nerve, ( twisting awkwardly whilst holding small runner in training)... and an Infected horsefly bite at the end of a run...
All these exciting and very unusual injuries I have logged in past posts...
I re-read them and they entertain me wonderfully!
These weird and wonderful injuries have had me on the IC ,for not inconsiderable, but not, either, interminable lengths of time...and time does pass slowly...if you let it.
I usually start off with a short period of the grumplies...family are supportive and kind and recognise the signs... then I very quickly move to.. right... how am I going to get through this, without my regular three times a week runs?
Copious amounts of ideas lists are drawn up... and a time frame to match.
First and foremost for me, is how can I retain my fitness level to a reasonable degree... and remember, I am an older snail than many of you... ( not that you are snails).
The starting point is.. what ails you?
From there the next point is, have the medical experts given you advice..on your recovery period, and what you are allowed to do in that period to sustain your fitness level?
They are the experts, and we must listen to their advice... there are loads of us on here who have gone through similar things, but each of us is different,, and what advice may have been given to one, will not suit all.
So... what can you do... ? This time around my consultant said I could walk... cycle or swim... positively no running at all.. anywhere.. at any time..
When you know what you are able to do...and you know what, not to do... then you are able to work out a little regime for yourself..
... has a section on injury which is really helpful... and there is much out there to help you find what suits you.
There are exercises for upper body strength.. or lower body strength...
Relaxation techniques
Stretches
Workouts...to name but a few
The important bit is finding what is right for you and what suits you.
I have a daily regime when I am fully fit... but at the moment, I have to be a tad careful with the knee that is the problem.. so my normal strength work out has been put on hold..
I am using a series of work outs that I have used before.. they are not horrendously strenuous and are very much geared towards folk recovering from injury, or folk with certain restrictions, e.g. being unable to lie on your back..or shhh ( older folk)
E.g. I am using standing based Ab workouts... because being on my back at the moment is not comfortable... I am not doing anything where I have to kneel either..
I follow them on YouTube, because it paces me and I am able to see the different levels of the exercise..
I am doing some weight based exercise and some cardio work outs too... all pretty gentle comparatively... but enough to get the heart pumping and all helping to keep the limbs moving.. plus..it makes you feel good !
My garden looks superb... Herbs are happy, I have pots a'plenty and flowers flourishing..because the garden was an area on my list. Maybe neglected because of running times... it has had my full attention and just before the really hot spell too.
Don't dismiss a day in the garden out of turn...if your injury means you can potter around, then do it.
A day with some housework.. e.g. cleaning windows... if you have an inured leg or foot .. then just hobble slowly around and think how much good you are doing those tummy muscles.
My two days caring for small runner in training counts as a great work out too... walking, lifting and carrying and buggy pushing
Just putting things up and away in cupboards,giving the worktops a really good clean...simple things that as long as your injury allows, will make a small difference.
Mind, for some of these you would need to be really fit for!
Loads of reading material too.. where you can have a look at what is out there to help..
On Amazon for example... The Running Injury Recovery Program... by Bruce R Wilk
The internet is a useful device... if we use it sensibly.. there are some great sites out there with really helpful advice and tips..but they do need to be valid and reputable sites..and do not replace the advice from your doctors or sports Physio
Take a look and maybe, pick out any bits that will suit you and your injury..
But also, whilst on the IC.. do take some time to rest, recover and recharge.
Listen to your body, just as you do when you run... and take notice... it will tell you when it is time to ease off
Read all the books you enjoyed as a child...read the new best sellers... read everyone's posts on the forum... it won't depress you, it will motivate you to get better.
I love that I go with folk on their runs and even more when they have photos too!
Thanks to all of you who take me with you
If you enjoy it, then watch all the films you enjoy.. back to back catch-up... paint, write, knit, sew... online retail therapy can be good also...but expensive!
I read... a lot... I am catching up with my writing and I have now finished five , unfinished watercolour paintings and framed four of them
Hence my IC view of an Italian hill town
You will get your fitness levels and your stamina and strength back...you really will; there are so many awesome runners on these forums, who have had or have life-changing illness or injury and they are still here, still getting back to full strength or there already. Role models for us all.
So, if nothing else, I have passed some time for you, if you have read through this ramble...
Be kind to yourself... and nurture yourself...the runs will be there when you are recovered.
Happy Healing to all of you
Flossx
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Hi floss ...You have been through it all ..And still come and advise and help us ...I admire you so much ...Ur painting is fantastic ..I am back running g again after small injury ..Only managing 15 min but it's a start .. I wish you all the very best in your health and hope ur back to ur running soon ..Best regards Myra x
Thank you... small steps... those are the ones that will get us back... My problems are small compared with many... and it is hard sometimes... but we are tough
Thank you for that - I'm gnashing my teeth at possibly losing the benefits of all that led up to graduation. I snuck in a run the other morning - shorter and slower than usual, but I don't think I did my bruised ribs any favours...but on a positive note, it didn't kill me! so maybe a couple more days rest and then another slow short one....
Thank you for all the suggestions - I'm surprised you ever managed to get any running in with all that going on! Best wishes for getting on the road again...
Another lovely post OF ❤️ I’m not actually on the IC and my garden is in desperate need of some TLC. If you ever need something else to do, you’re welcome to come and give it some care and attention 😂
Make sure you DO listen to those in the know. I don’t think you’ll lose much fitness and I bet, when you’re allowed, you’ll surprise yourself running with your first run.
Be kind to yourself, be as patient as you can, keep creating beautiful artwork and enjoy our runs. Will send pictures from another Italian village tomorrow! xxx
Wow, you've really been through the mill haven’t you? Great to see that you have such a positive attitude to being on the IC though - I think it would drive me crazy. Love the watercolour by the way.
I hope you have had a super, super run.. still 25 here.. and very clammy... I am going to sit in the garden and watch for the blood moon. Thank you for taking me with you xxx
A beautiful, inspiring post, Floss, and what a great painting! ❤️ I’m not on the running IC, but have been on the rock climbing IC for months (wrist tendon) - I tried something different and took up running! I hope to do another Parkrun tomorrow, so will be sure to take you out there with me. Slow and Steady is definitely being borrowed from you as my mantra for the 10k plan. 😊❤️🏃♂️🏃♀️🐌😎
What an amazingly caring person you are.Thinking of the forum and all your links and references to help others.
This work should be pinned so it is readily available to help all.🤔
I read on pinkaardvark post on Marathon just yesterday, his post with links, some American research puts it as high as 70% of runners can pick up an injury.
Whatever the stats.,for sure it is how we manage our downtime and our successful return that is vital and the key.
You of all people have demonstrated this.
Every good wish with your healing our Floss.💥🏃♀️💥👏👏
Great timing for this post. I’ve been so excited about getting back running after so long and then some fun on the beach stopped all of that almost as soon as I’d started. My previous running self had snapped achilles, torn muscles, hamstring issues and some knocks from other sports I had to play... but I was a kid, I bounced back. So I did some damage to my knee, and I can’t walk more than 200 yards at any kind of pace... minor compared to past injuries, but I’m no longer young, so it’s been a worry. Looks like I’m facing at least a week off, and that’s being optimistic... realistically two to three. Hopefully next weeks doctors visit doesn’t mean a trip to the hospital, I’m gonna be really good. I say that but jumping up and and down when my daughter completed week one was probably a mistake. Your post has reminded me that even sat on the sidelines I’m not alone and also that I need to be doing something.... thanks for that.
It’s not too bad... just need to look after it. As for the forums, nobody has sourced me a one legged treadmill yet! My left knee is so strong and wants to go!
Ooh... thanks... and yes that would make sense, the body gets ready for what exercise it thinks it is getting, so would build the other leg at least a little.
Thank you for all the advice in your post I’m going to look some of those up especially the standing abdominal ones.
It sounds like you are definitely a “glass half full” person and I really hope the next few weeks fly by for you and that you are soon running again xxx
She has a whole series... you have to search around a bit..
The great thing is she is so personable.. one she does not long after she had her baby, she groans along with us while she is doing stuff... a real person!
Wow you have been busy just writing that must have been an epic task! Hope you get good news with the mri results in the meantime wow so many plans and ideas a very active yellow stripey snail!
Hi IP! Yes ok thanks had lots going on having to move house but it's all done now and my weekends and days off are my own again ! Hope you're ok too xxx
Hi Floss, I was thinking of you & your scan today - & I am sending hugs & good recovery wishes. 😘
Thanks for such a positive, encouraging post 😄 - you are absolutely right taking the “do what I can” approach to the IC - I loved the “weed whacking” in the fitness chores article- I’ll be doing that tomorrow having spotted a mega thistle (about my height ) today while stocking up the bird feeder between thunderstorms. 😄
Thank you... it was okay...I was a little apprehensive as I have not had any experience of anything like the scan! Very noisy..but interesting! Maybe I may get my results sooner!
I liked the 'weed whacking' too!!! Great for getting rid of any tension or stress I thought! You be careful..these thistles can be prickly pests
My painting ! Not brilliant..but since I started my watercolour class..I have learned a lot.. and it is a great relaxation too, which is really useful right now
Sorry to hear your on the injury couch 😢 I hope you get back out there soon and thank you for all your wonderful support in my time of need 😇
Thank you Oldfloss for the post. I’m on the IC due to piriformis syndrome which is really limiting and painful. I’ve been out 4 weeks now but at least Parkrun gets another volunteer!
When seeing runners out and about pass me enjoying their exercise it sometimes feels a lonely place on the IC.
Yes alternative exercises or activities are important to keep focused.
Ouch and double ouch....I really, really empathise... the pain is horrendous and unrelenting...keep up with the exercises, they do help.
I used one which one of our other forum family friends sent me..( my trapped sciatic nerve was causing problems with the piriformis muscle..) it was incredibly helpful.
There are a lot of us here on the IC right now, but we will be back out there
Oops just clicked the like button and an "unlike" button popped up! Not sure what is wrong. It doesn't accept my "like".
Oh Floss what a great post. Very wise, so much valuable information and you are such a brilliant role model for folks on the IC (and off it too 🙂).
I thought of you yesterday and your scan and I really hope it's the news you want when you see the consultant. I'm sure it will be because you're a model patient 😇
I do agree with what you say about staying on the site when on the IC. It's kept me sane at times when I couldn't run and it's so important to stay in touch. And of course there are so many great posts too.
I'm sure your garden looks wonderful. And as we gardeners know, you can get a really good workout on the plot doing all sorts of jobs. Just be careful of further injury though as I think I've injured myself more through gardening than the running!
I've just settled down with a pot of tea and this has been perfect reading for a cool (yes!!!) Saturday morning. And it rained last night! Hallelujah!
Good morning my friend... thank you; the hug is accepted gratefully
I have not rambled for a while and there are so many folk struggling right now... I feel that just knowing we are all in this together, wherever we are with our running, with the same worries and fears...may help.
The garden has never looked so good for a long time.. and I do take it steadily, as my fitness level slowly builds back up, that blessed bite and subsequent antibiotic blast, really took its toll. I have lost weight and need to get that back up... I have not been this light since I was 30!!!
I really want to run... but three more weeks will pass quicky and I just may get the results earlier
Well it rained? here... just, a light shower, for five minutes! But, it is fresher with a light breeze... so, maybe a walk or a cycle ride
Tee hee.. thank you..it was intended just for a joke...I have learned so much since I started my classes.. and being on the IC had given me chance to get work finished!
Yes.. it is difficult sometimes, and as I had no pain and was unaware of any problems before my x ray ( for something else) , the temptation to just head out for a little jogette is strong... But I can be sensible..
Good Morning hope your MRI is good and gives you plenty of joy. I got lucky with mine got the result after a week (must be the hospital) and was told the result was good which combined with my Blood check which was also good made me really happy however havn’t had the chance to get out as the weather has been really bad here and as I can’t run yet can be a bit dull. Anyway should be able to get out next Saturday weather permitting.
Good morning.. what great news Michael. I was hoping it would be! Hopefully you will be able to get out soon...it is raining lightly here, the first we have had in weeks and weeks.
I am so tempted to run , now that the MRI is done.. but common sense will prevail!
Morning OF. Lovely painting you are so productive you put lazy me to shame ! I have been sat in bed wondering if I should Parkrun today .... when i heard that you come with us on our runs it has made my mind up !! I will be slow and not pretty but the scenery is gorgoeus as it is in the forestry and after the rain will smell divine. Hope you enjoy it and thanks for giving me the 'push' out the door. Diane.
I admire your positivity OF. Sorry your stay on the IC is still ongoing but it's inspiring to hear how you're using your time. The painting is beautiful - I'm looking forward to your African period! If I am brave enough to get out very early in the morning over the next couple of weeks on Kefalonia, I will take you for a short run by the sea with me. Be strong and well. X
Thank you for a lovely post, it's very timely for me. I graduated c25k at the end of June, and just when I was starting to feel all proud of myself and FIT for the first time in DECADES, I tripped over a chair and wrenched my foot. It's not serious at all, but I haven't run for two weeks, GP has told me I mustn't start again yet, and I was starting to panic about keeping fitness levels up. You've just given me the kick up the backside I needed to stop moping around and do something!
I might start with some abs... or some gardening now that it's rained (although TBH some kitchen worktop cleaning would prob be more useful.. )
Take care of yourself, and I love the painting! xx
Oh goodness.. that is horrid for you, and when it is so soon after Graduation...But.. now you know we are all here... we have shoved along so there is room for you on the couch.. while you make some plans...When we do sort out a plan of action, even a little one, it does get those happy hormones back into action.
It rained? here for about five minute.. glorious blue sky again now.. so a cycle ride for me..
I would plump for your garden, those worktops will be there when it rains
Have a lovely day whatever and take care of that foot too.
Yes it chucked it down last night, now it's sunny and fresh and a lot cooler, so I'm going to head out too. Catch you on the couch later, thanks for budging up
Thanks OldFloss - good to get some perspective from someone with more experience of the IC than me I do love your painting. I have been keeping myself occupied with cross-stitch, though work has a nasty habit of encroaching.
(Didn't mean to imply I was glad you had lots of experience of the IC btw! Just that I really appreciate you sharing your insights with us fledgeling runners)
I can well believe the little proto-runner is keeping you busy and entertained
She does.. and now she is really into talking and walking .. a LOT.. and with the odd run thrown in.. it is terrific fun.. talk about core strength and stamina exercises
Great post in adversity, you’re an amazing example of patience and coping admirably with the things that life throws at you. I do hope the 3 weeks flies by for you and you’ll be able to do your own runs not just come along with us. Fab piece of artwork. 😊
Thanks you... just intended to let us all know we run and we sit on the IC together...
Maybe not always patient..and I do have to repeat my own mantra of slow and steady, to myself... The painting.. is fun and I have improved since my first efforts which was our first assigment
You sound like an old war horse, dear friend. Battered, loyal and always ready to carry on. I do admire your attitude. After every injury you get back out there - I don’t think I’d have your persistence.
Unlike you I’ve had no serious injuries. But I have a lot of niggles at the moment, what feels like a pulled muscle in my left buttock, sore, rickety knees, aching under the arches of my right foot, hips protesting. Not all at the same time, but always something. I reckon it’s because I’m wonky!
But taking 10 days off didn’t help my knees at all - they’re better when running.
So until something really nasty happens I will keep plodding on. 3x a week. The long runs aren’t happening at the moment because it’s too hot. But as long as I’m ticking over that’s the main thing!
I love your painting and thanks for all your ideas about keeping fit.
You sound a bit like me really.. I have had the odd nasty thing, but, my knees have always made a funny noise.. and I have to rub my legs and ankles and feet every morning anyway!
I wonder if I had not gone for the x ray which turned this up ( it was for something else) would it have got worse... I was running..not in pain... ???
Mr OF says, best that it was seen because who knows how it would have developed as I got older..hahahaha !
I was very tempted over this three weeks to go out again... but then thought I need to wait and see what the MRI says!
Keep on out there my friend.. and I hope all your aches and pains vanish into the heat haze
Run for me please... slow and steady and when it is cooler
Battered war horse... ? Wonderful.... more like a wonky donkey!!!
What a lovely post and fabulous painting OF. I really admire your spirit and attitude. I hope the 3 weeks flies by for you, enjoying your garden, painting and “grandies” not forgetting Mr OF of course sounds a fine way to pass the time. XX 🙂
Thank you my friend I pretend that one day, I shall be an undiscovered famous artist.. Well.. I have waited this long, so I need to be sensible and just see what is what!
As you say, I am blessed with my family... and Mr OF is the rock for my castle x
Lovely post, how thoughtful, accomplished & talented you are. Your picture is beautiful. I always benefit from reading your material, OF, you are a wonderful coach & mentor to us all. & well timed, currently struggling with a flare up of a chronic condition & starting to feel sorry for myself... & panic that I've not run since Tuesday.. & the world will unravel & implode! 😲 😱 You've put it into perspective nicely.
I've found it's such a blurry line between knowing when to listen to our bodies and the desire to push it further. & It's good to have that permission to rest and recuperate. I really appreciate that reassurance that it's OK, that life goes on!
Enjoy your rest. Wishing you good health & healing x
Catching up on posts......thank you so much Floss, what a great inspiration you are! I loved the links, thanks for taking time away from your painting to share with us. I particularly liked the article about chores since I do lots of housework running the B&B!! Hope you heal soon.
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