Last Monday I did my first 10k, pb times etc. And of course I was super happy. 2 days later I had some aches that niggled and I felt I’d best not ignore them. I’d torn a calf muscle at Christmas and although not troublesome since, I was now definitely aware of its existence again as it felt really tight.
So, I’ve had a full week off running. I’ve probably not been an easy person to live with this week. By day 5 of no running, I was run obsessed, hardly thinking or talking of anything else. Probably some sort of withdrawal symptom! Never thought not running would affect me!
On Sunday, whilst away visiting in Leeds, I watched the half marathon. Not that I could do a half marathon, I envied their running and marvelled at their ability. Today, I decided was the day I HAD to try a run again. My head said ‘go slow.’ My head said ‘don’t go far.’ I prepped carefully- dynamic stretching and 5 min warm up walk.
I chose my off road stone and dirt track route with some undulations as the 10k had been on tarmac which for me was probably unwise.
Anyway! I did a slow 2k, 1 min per k slower than my usual pace on that route. The first k was a shock to lungs, they felt tight, but then loosened up. After 2k things seemed ok and without conscious decision, sensible head was probably away in a world of its own by then and abandoned my legs. I did further 2k at regular pace.
More walk and stretch after the running and now hoping some shorter consolidation runs will have me doing longer runs again in due course as I do like them.
What have I learnt: did too much too soon, over enthusiasm got the better of me. 🤞🏻I remember the lesson!! But at my age forgetfulness is becoming an issue, lol!
The Return of the Running Tomato (or, another w2 run..)
W8R2 another Tony Tiger run!
About to give it another go!
Running rest day exercise advice please?
Abject parkrun failure and another run
