Injuries

Nothing is more frustrating to a runner than a nagging injury. We'll of course there is the blowing up in a big race or missing the PR by a second, but the injury still takes the prize in my book. About a month ago I was half-sidelined with a knee injury that caused a pain that was unfamiliar. Unsure of the cause or actual diagnosis I was disheartened, but steadfast on rehabbing the right way despite a race booked in early April. I backed off my mileage, vowed to run no more than every other day, became good friends with the bag of frozen corn in my freezer, and focused on strengthening the leg. This weekend I made a minor breakthrough and was able to get in a couple quality runs, zeroing in on my tempo pace and adding extra miles. It's always a tough battle to know when you can push through an injury or when you should stop. Luckily I was blessed to choose the right combination to get my back on the trails sooner than later. If I learned anything from this experience, it was to be patient and listen to your body. I am far from being in the clear, but was given confidence in the fact that I am moving in the right direction.