So. It’s been a long couple of weeks, but I think I’m getting back on track. Went for a short run today, which felt good, and have reset my training schedule. Sometime soon I’ll talk about my goals for the race — they’re wide-ranging and cover more than my hoped-for race performance. But those details will be for another day.
As I mentioned in my last post, I’d strained my back which in turn led to an enforced delay in the start of my training. It was frustrating, but a few years ago — after experiencing a bad stress fracture in my foot — I learned to listen to my body. Even when it’s telling me things I don’t want to hear.
In any event, it was a beautiful day for a run. A few clouds in the sky, light winds, and a balmy 55 degrees. Ran just over one and a third miles, mostly to see how my back felt. No problems. I suspect the strain was a consequence of running the Parks 10K while not having trained well, in conjunction with a broader problem of not adopting a more comprehensive training program. Among the challenges was my move this last summer — anyone who’s been through the process knows it’s disruptive and it played havoc with my training. That and some other factors made it difficult to get out to run, and led me into the habit of skipping the gym to work on core strength.
Add it up, and a strained back was the easily foreseeable result.
I’ve started doing some yoga. My balance is not that great, so that should help with that problem. And I’m planning to work in some weights and other exercise that will strengthen my core. The goal is to develop a more rounded plan.
Next time, we’ll talk about goals, and I’ll work on ways to make this a more interactive experience. I’m not an expert, but I’ve learned a few things, and it’s my desire to share my experiences in the hope it helps others in similar situations.
In the meantime, enjoy your holiday. Set your intention.
