A word of caution: don't hurry your body!

[anni]

I finished the Get Running programme successfully in August and continued training happier than ever. As both my orthopedist and physiotherapist have now banned me from all running for the time being, I'd like to share a few words of caution with the community.

From couch to 5K in 8 weeks is quite an achievement. In fact, the progress curve is so steep that your body may not be fully able to cope. I am a 47-years-old woman, normal weight and in an OK condition thanks to regular physical activity. I enjoyed the training programme very much, but apparently the achilles tendon of my right ankle did not. I never experienced any pain during running, but it was only the soreness and stiffness next morning that made me think there might be something wrong. There truly was: thanks to some old sports injuries and some muscular imbalance, the poor tendon had been severely overused. Luckily, I went to see the doctor in time. The problem can be fixed, but it will take time, patience and a lot of targeted exercise - and a strict respite from running.

I have now learned my lessons which are:
1) If you are no spring chicken, double the rest days. The haydays of our youth are bygones, our bodies will no longer recover overnight as they did 20 years ago.
2) If you experience any pain that might relate to your new training programme, take a break and consult a doctor. The 'no pain, no gain' philosophy so often deployed in sports will make you appear very cool and macho, but will sooner or later mar the only vechile you have, your own body.

Take it easy and enjoy your runs - but ensure that you will be able to enjoy running also in the future.

[Digbycat]

Oh no! Poor you, That's horrid to achieve so much and not be able to keep going. I really hope you are able to get back to it soon.

Thank you for posting this tho' I am always aware of my rest days and as much as I'd like to think I'm superwoman and invincible I know I'm not.

All the best

Xx