The verdict was in: Patellar Tendinitis
And I was NOT HAPPY...
I left my Podiatrist's office thinking..."what the heck?" and wondering if he really was a quack....I was so convinced that all my knee issues had been because of my insoles, that I was just plain irritated when he said they weren't the culprit...
Turns out: HE WAS RIGHT...Podiatrist 1 :Tammy 0
He put me back on Meloxicam, and said I could try a Patellar strap to see if it helped. I immediately went to have my prescription refilled and headed to Sporty Runner to get my strap. When I got home, I googled PT exercises for patellar tendinitis. Did it work?
YES!!!!!! The strap and exercises helped immediately, and the meds really helped the soreness I already had over several days. I have been doing wall sits/squats, squeezing a ball or my foam roller between my legs, for 30-45 seconds at a time. The recommended amount is to do these exercises 5-10 reps, at least twice a day for 2 weeks, to have 90% relief. I can't say I was that consistent, but it has been a significant improvement. I am continuing to take the Meloxicam and do the exercises and the last 3 runs, I have not had to use my strap!
Most of my runs lately have been pretty awesome. Last week the humidity came back in full force and it was hard all over again, but for the most part, they have been wonderful. Today was my 12 miler. I was nervous because it was the longest run I have done since I got injured last year. I started out slow, with a 5 minute warm-up walk, and 3:1 (running:walking) for the first 6 miles or so. The last 6 miles, I took a 1 minute walk break every 10 minutes. I was a tad sore at the end, but nothing unbearable. Did a lot of stretching, prescribed PT hip exercises, and foam rolling when I got home. My foam roller is my frienemy...
I have decided to forgo doing the Soaring Wings Half Marathon in October and instead, will be doing the Maynard Cohick Bass Pro Half Marathon in November. Cheryl and Kim decided about 1-2 weeks ago to do it, because Cheryl's friend, another Sheryl, missed the deadline to sign up for the Maemphis Half. I was invited to join them. It's been so long since I've done a race with the girls! I won't be running with them, I'm sure, but the road trip should be fun and it will give us all a chance to catch up. I'm coming to terms with my slowness..at least for now. It's just going to hurt me in the long run to punish my body for something I just can't do right now. These days..a successful run is one that leaves me feeling good at the end and without injury!
Background
Friday, September 17, 2010
Friday, August 20, 2010
A brief intermission...
Not too much has changed on the running front....I had 3 very good runs and the knee pain returned. I now have an appointment with my Podiatrist for Monday and I am hoping that he can help me with the insoles. Beyond that, I don't know what to do...so prayers are being prayed and good thoughts are being thunk (yeah, I said that)....fingers crossed....
Those 3 runs were a taste of bliss...they were virtually pain free and it has been so long since I experienced that, it was almost like a high...I started getting so excited about running again!!! I really want to be able to enjoy fall running the next few months, it is my favorite time of year. I haven't given up on the Soaring Wings Half yet, but the deadline before the rate goes up is August 24th...
Has anyone ever been sidelined by an injury so long that you don't even think of yourself as a runner anymore? Sometimes I feel like an impostor or something....trying to live on the "glory days" .....
Those 3 runs were a taste of bliss...they were virtually pain free and it has been so long since I experienced that, it was almost like a high...I started getting so excited about running again!!! I really want to be able to enjoy fall running the next few months, it is my favorite time of year. I haven't given up on the Soaring Wings Half yet, but the deadline before the rate goes up is August 24th...
Has anyone ever been sidelined by an injury so long that you don't even think of yourself as a runner anymore? Sometimes I feel like an impostor or something....trying to live on the "glory days" .....
Friday, August 6, 2010
SUCK week...
Ugh...............
It is never-ending...the insole drama continues. Needless to say, I think I'm going to have to have the dang things adjusted again. Last week's 7 miler was brutal on the knees. I took the insoles to be adjusted on Monday and tried them again on Wednesday's run. Aside from giving myself heat stroke running outside in 106 degree weather, my knees and feet bothered me afterwards. This week I have also had the unfortunate pleasure of my hip pain returning, so basically....SUCK!! I'm skipping running today and not even sure if my 7 miler will even happen tomorrow. Is being able to run without pain too much to ask? I'm so tired of hurting all the time, the fleeting thought of giving up running all-together crossed my mind yesterday.....But I don't want to live with that. I know that running is not my whole identity, but it really does feel like a huge part of me. I LOVE it...if I didn't, I would have given up long ago. Now I'm wondering if I need to give up on the upcoming Soaring Wings Half Marathon in October. I haven't actually registered yet, but now I'm scared to. Not sure if I will be ready in time with all the set backs....
I continue with my exercises for the hip, and I'm really hoping that I don't have to go back to PT. I could really use some ART right now to loosen me up. I think that once I can pinpoint why my insoles aren't working for me, the knee pain will get better. I considered a patellar strap, but I think that's just treating something that is, ultimately being caused by the insole/shoe issue. NUTS!
It is never-ending...the insole drama continues. Needless to say, I think I'm going to have to have the dang things adjusted again. Last week's 7 miler was brutal on the knees. I took the insoles to be adjusted on Monday and tried them again on Wednesday's run. Aside from giving myself heat stroke running outside in 106 degree weather, my knees and feet bothered me afterwards. This week I have also had the unfortunate pleasure of my hip pain returning, so basically....SUCK!! I'm skipping running today and not even sure if my 7 miler will even happen tomorrow. Is being able to run without pain too much to ask? I'm so tired of hurting all the time, the fleeting thought of giving up running all-together crossed my mind yesterday.....But I don't want to live with that. I know that running is not my whole identity, but it really does feel like a huge part of me. I LOVE it...if I didn't, I would have given up long ago. Now I'm wondering if I need to give up on the upcoming Soaring Wings Half Marathon in October. I haven't actually registered yet, but now I'm scared to. Not sure if I will be ready in time with all the set backs....
I continue with my exercises for the hip, and I'm really hoping that I don't have to go back to PT. I could really use some ART right now to loosen me up. I think that once I can pinpoint why my insoles aren't working for me, the knee pain will get better. I considered a patellar strap, but I think that's just treating something that is, ultimately being caused by the insole/shoe issue. NUTS!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Insoles return...and so do the walk breaks...
Well....I finally got my custom insoles. Still having a tiny bit of knee pain, but it is usually after my runs...I think it's a bit of IT band stuff, but maybe I need my insoles adapted? I wanted to wear them for a week to see how they felt, since there seems to be a short adjustment period whenever I get new shoes or insoles. I'm still trying to tell if they are going to work for me. Thankfully, the guys at New Balance will adjust them as needed, but it is a bit frustrating trying to pinpoint exactly what the "not right" feeling is and telling them in a way that they can make the needed adjustments. We'll see about that...
I have returned to my foam rolling for my IT band and am continuing to do my hip exercises. I read on another blog that a girl who was having problem with her IT Band was told to do "quad sets" by her PT. I was thinking "What are those?"....basically they are similar to a leg extensions, but probably without weight, the whole point being to strengthen the quads and contract the muscles. Then I remembered that a muscle imbalance can cause IT Band issues. I haven't been doing leg extensions because they used to bother my hip flexor, but I hadn't tried them since I had been going to PT. So, last time I went to the gym, I did 3 sets of 20 leg extensions with 35 lbs. I could tell IMMEDIATELY that it helped!! So, needless to say, I have worked these back into my strengthening routine.
I have tried not to overdo the whole cross-training thing, while trying to get back into running. I really have been abusing my poor body and hating on it because I've been so frustrated at how all these injuries have been plaguing me...and how slowly my recovery has been. In fact, I have probably been slowing my own recovery, pushing myself too hard...trying to "get back to where I was"...Truth is...you can't come back from almost 5 months of no running and resume like nothing ever happened....Well, maybe some people can, but not this Sheila....I think I've internalized my anger about that and taken it out on myself. It's not getting me anywhere! It's hard feeling like a newbie...I almost feel like I don't know what the hell I'm doing and I'm having to relearn my limits all over again.
I am able to run 20 minutes at a time before having to take a walk break now..I think that is mostly due to overdoing my cross training and then having a sore hip..But yesterday I just let myself do the Galloway method...doing a 5 minute walk at the beginning, and then doing a 5:1 ratio of running/walking and at the end...I felt great! I am afraid that if I get into the habit of doing this, that I won't be able to build up my endurance to run longer periods of time, but right now...Getting my runs in without injury is more important. I'm tired of being plagued by fears that every run will result in pain. So...Galloway here I come! I'm actually looking forward to feeling better at the end of my long runs. I'm even curious to see in an upcoming half marathon, how it works for me. There are several "goal time" schedules in the Galloway book and they usually call for a few speed work days that I probably won't be able to do, but it's an experiment I'm willing to try! Tomorrow is my 7 miler, so I'll see how it goes.
I have returned to my foam rolling for my IT band and am continuing to do my hip exercises. I read on another blog that a girl who was having problem with her IT Band was told to do "quad sets" by her PT. I was thinking "What are those?"....basically they are similar to a leg extensions, but probably without weight, the whole point being to strengthen the quads and contract the muscles. Then I remembered that a muscle imbalance can cause IT Band issues. I haven't been doing leg extensions because they used to bother my hip flexor, but I hadn't tried them since I had been going to PT. So, last time I went to the gym, I did 3 sets of 20 leg extensions with 35 lbs. I could tell IMMEDIATELY that it helped!! So, needless to say, I have worked these back into my strengthening routine.
I have tried not to overdo the whole cross-training thing, while trying to get back into running. I really have been abusing my poor body and hating on it because I've been so frustrated at how all these injuries have been plaguing me...and how slowly my recovery has been. In fact, I have probably been slowing my own recovery, pushing myself too hard...trying to "get back to where I was"...Truth is...you can't come back from almost 5 months of no running and resume like nothing ever happened....Well, maybe some people can, but not this Sheila....I think I've internalized my anger about that and taken it out on myself. It's not getting me anywhere! It's hard feeling like a newbie...I almost feel like I don't know what the hell I'm doing and I'm having to relearn my limits all over again.
I am able to run 20 minutes at a time before having to take a walk break now..I think that is mostly due to overdoing my cross training and then having a sore hip..But yesterday I just let myself do the Galloway method...doing a 5 minute walk at the beginning, and then doing a 5:1 ratio of running/walking and at the end...I felt great! I am afraid that if I get into the habit of doing this, that I won't be able to build up my endurance to run longer periods of time, but right now...Getting my runs in without injury is more important. I'm tired of being plagued by fears that every run will result in pain. So...Galloway here I come! I'm actually looking forward to feeling better at the end of my long runs. I'm even curious to see in an upcoming half marathon, how it works for me. There are several "goal time" schedules in the Galloway book and they usually call for a few speed work days that I probably won't be able to do, but it's an experiment I'm willing to try! Tomorrow is my 7 miler, so I'll see how it goes.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
A torturous 7 miler...destined to injury?
I finally did order a pair of insoles (inside tears)...and I was wishing i had them this morning for sure...
Today was the Maumelle route...I'm not opposed, pretty flat, although out and back...which I usually do not favor. My hip was kind of sore last night, so I was slightly apprehensive about today's run..not to mention, 7 miles on the schedule. I did some of my hip exercises in bed before getting up and it seemed to help some. I left my house a little early this morning so I could start my walking warm up. I usually start the routes with 5 minutes of walking and ease into a pace, but wanted to try to run a little with Cheryl and Kim this morning, so I was hoping to get it out of the way. That way, by the time they caught up with me, I would be running. Didn't go as planned, as the group started late due to Tom's "rambling on" (hehe)...I somehow started out way too fast and ended up paying for it the second half of the run....plus, I had some technical difficulties..issues with my shoes, my fuel belt, etc...At one point I had to loosen my laces because I felt that all-to-familiar feeling of pressure on the top of my foot...I thought "Oh no!" because this same issue during my last marathon kept me "running-free" (as in , NO running) for about 8 weeks afterward...
Loosening the laces seemed to help, but I felt like I was compensating for the looser shoe by flexing my foot upward, therefore...getting a cramp in my toes...Then....a long lost enemy showed up...IT Band pain... GEEZ!! That's what I get for going too fast! I wasn't sure if it was my IT Band at first, maybe my hip flexor...but I stopped to stretch and it got better, so I knew my nemesis was back....Sigh...Am I destined for injury? Seriously...
I came home and did a bit of foam rolling and my hip exercises, and I do feel somewhat better. I also applied an ice pack to my foot, hoping to fend off that issue ASAP. Ibuprofen is my friend today...
My insoles are supposed to be ready in about 10 days and I am counting down...
Today was the Maumelle route...I'm not opposed, pretty flat, although out and back...which I usually do not favor. My hip was kind of sore last night, so I was slightly apprehensive about today's run..not to mention, 7 miles on the schedule. I did some of my hip exercises in bed before getting up and it seemed to help some. I left my house a little early this morning so I could start my walking warm up. I usually start the routes with 5 minutes of walking and ease into a pace, but wanted to try to run a little with Cheryl and Kim this morning, so I was hoping to get it out of the way. That way, by the time they caught up with me, I would be running. Didn't go as planned, as the group started late due to Tom's "rambling on" (hehe)...I somehow started out way too fast and ended up paying for it the second half of the run....plus, I had some technical difficulties..issues with my shoes, my fuel belt, etc...At one point I had to loosen my laces because I felt that all-to-familiar feeling of pressure on the top of my foot...I thought "Oh no!" because this same issue during my last marathon kept me "running-free" (as in , NO running) for about 8 weeks afterward...
Loosening the laces seemed to help, but I felt like I was compensating for the looser shoe by flexing my foot upward, therefore...getting a cramp in my toes...Then....a long lost enemy showed up...IT Band pain... GEEZ!! That's what I get for going too fast! I wasn't sure if it was my IT Band at first, maybe my hip flexor...but I stopped to stretch and it got better, so I knew my nemesis was back....Sigh...Am I destined for injury? Seriously...
I came home and did a bit of foam rolling and my hip exercises, and I do feel somewhat better. I also applied an ice pack to my foot, hoping to fend off that issue ASAP. Ibuprofen is my friend today...
My insoles are supposed to be ready in about 10 days and I am counting down...
Friday, June 25, 2010
It had to be something...
It had to be something...this week, my knees...geez...
My knees have really been bothering me this week, somewhat during my runs, but especially afterwards. Usually when this happens, it is because I need new shoes or new insoles. I'm positive it's not my shoes, since I just started breaking in a new pair 2 weeks ago...so, insoles it is! My insoles were custom made at the Foot Solutions lab in Little Rock...and they cost me a pretty penny when I got them...I was kind of freaking out, thinking that I might need new ones, because I could definitely could do without the expense right now. I took them to the store today and showed them to Eric, the on-site Podorthist, who made them for me. He thinks the need a new foot pad and told me to bring them back on Monday and he would try to tweak them, so I don't have to buy another pair! YES! Now the catch: I have to leave them with him for several days, up to a week, if necessary....UGH!
I'm hoping the knees hold up for tomorrow's "long" run, and it looks like a no-running week for me, if my shoes are going to be in Little Rock without me. So, I guess I will be doing other cardio this week instead. Maybe this will be a good opportunity to get back on my spin bike! I hope that it dosen't bother the hip, it has been a little tight this week...but I am doing my exercises every other day, like I should!
My knees have really been bothering me this week, somewhat during my runs, but especially afterwards. Usually when this happens, it is because I need new shoes or new insoles. I'm positive it's not my shoes, since I just started breaking in a new pair 2 weeks ago...so, insoles it is! My insoles were custom made at the Foot Solutions lab in Little Rock...and they cost me a pretty penny when I got them...I was kind of freaking out, thinking that I might need new ones, because I could definitely could do without the expense right now. I took them to the store today and showed them to Eric, the on-site Podorthist, who made them for me. He thinks the need a new foot pad and told me to bring them back on Monday and he would try to tweak them, so I don't have to buy another pair! YES! Now the catch: I have to leave them with him for several days, up to a week, if necessary....UGH!
I'm hoping the knees hold up for tomorrow's "long" run, and it looks like a no-running week for me, if my shoes are going to be in Little Rock without me. So, I guess I will be doing other cardio this week instead. Maybe this will be a good opportunity to get back on my spin bike! I hope that it dosen't bother the hip, it has been a little tight this week...but I am doing my exercises every other day, like I should!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
PT Graduation
P.T. Graduation! Yesssssssssssss..........! No cap and gown...no ceremony...but I did get a nifty t-shirt!
Yesterday was my last PT session! It has been tremendously helpful, but I am glad that I will no longer be accumulating a HUGE balance or spending the 4-6 hours a week at the PT office! Overall, I would recommend Innovative Spine Rehab and my PT, Darby, to anyone that cares! I hope that I don't have to go back (meaning, I hope I'm not in a position to need it again), but it is nice to know that I can if I need to. It was actually kind of sad to leave...after seeing the gang twice a week for 3 months....I am so grateful for all they have done to help me get back to exercising and running again! I will continue my exercises at home, as close to every other day as possible. If that's what I gotta do, I'll do it!
Yesterday was my last PT session! It has been tremendously helpful, but I am glad that I will no longer be accumulating a HUGE balance or spending the 4-6 hours a week at the PT office! Overall, I would recommend Innovative Spine Rehab and my PT, Darby, to anyone that cares! I hope that I don't have to go back (meaning, I hope I'm not in a position to need it again), but it is nice to know that I can if I need to. It was actually kind of sad to leave...after seeing the gang twice a week for 3 months....I am so grateful for all they have done to help me get back to exercising and running again! I will continue my exercises at home, as close to every other day as possible. If that's what I gotta do, I'll do it!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
A little farther...and the end of PT?
5.5 miles today...
I was glad to see the route was downtown this weekend, at the River Market. I had 5 miles on the agenda and the hip felt pretty good. Yesterday was a rest day and I did my exercises at home. The run was partially downtown, over into my neighborhood (Argenta) and back over the bridge to Little Rock. My hip started to feel a little tight around mile 2.5, but somehow it felt better (?) on the uphill return over the Broadway Bridge. I love me some hills...I really can't wait to get back into some hill work as the hip continues to get better. It was pretty humid, but I guess I had a good wicking shirt on, cause I didn't feel that hot at all! I kept seeing people run by me that were just drenched in sweat!
After the run, I realized that I had taken my house keys off my keyring, instead of my car key...........verdict: My keys were locked in my car! Luckily, I didn't have to wait long before Kelli had finished her run and she let me use her phone to call the Verizon Roadside Assistance. They told me it would be approx 45 min for someone to arrive, so I headed to the River Market to get some water and coffee. Thankfully, Kelli also lent me some $ so I could! I walked around for a bit at the Farmer's Market, and within 20 minutes, my knight-in-a-blue-BMW arrived to unlock my car. It took him all of 1 minute to open my door and I was good to go! Of course, I am not glad did that I did that, but it really could have been so much worse! I was even able to make it to Power Pump, just as class was starting. Yay!
Monday will probably be my last PT session, whether I am "technically" done or not. I have been good this week at doing my exercises every other day and trying to balance exercise with rest. The last time I was in the office, I got a "scolding" (or at least, it felt like it) about the balance on my account. I guess they are worried I won't pay my bill. Maybe they deal with that a lot...people and/or insurance companies not paying their bills....Well, I pay my debts people! In fact, I HATE debt..therefore, I'm good for it and will pay it off faithfully. I have been paying what I can when I go in, but it was hard to keep up, considering each appointment was $75 out of my pocket. My savings has taken a serious hit with this PT thing!
I was glad to see the route was downtown this weekend, at the River Market. I had 5 miles on the agenda and the hip felt pretty good. Yesterday was a rest day and I did my exercises at home. The run was partially downtown, over into my neighborhood (Argenta) and back over the bridge to Little Rock. My hip started to feel a little tight around mile 2.5, but somehow it felt better (?) on the uphill return over the Broadway Bridge. I love me some hills...I really can't wait to get back into some hill work as the hip continues to get better. It was pretty humid, but I guess I had a good wicking shirt on, cause I didn't feel that hot at all! I kept seeing people run by me that were just drenched in sweat!
After the run, I realized that I had taken my house keys off my keyring, instead of my car key...........verdict: My keys were locked in my car! Luckily, I didn't have to wait long before Kelli had finished her run and she let me use her phone to call the Verizon Roadside Assistance. They told me it would be approx 45 min for someone to arrive, so I headed to the River Market to get some water and coffee. Thankfully, Kelli also lent me some $ so I could! I walked around for a bit at the Farmer's Market, and within 20 minutes, my knight-in-a-blue-BMW arrived to unlock my car. It took him all of 1 minute to open my door and I was good to go! Of course, I am not glad did that I did that, but it really could have been so much worse! I was even able to make it to Power Pump, just as class was starting. Yay!
Monday will probably be my last PT session, whether I am "technically" done or not. I have been good this week at doing my exercises every other day and trying to balance exercise with rest. The last time I was in the office, I got a "scolding" (or at least, it felt like it) about the balance on my account. I guess they are worried I won't pay my bill. Maybe they deal with that a lot...people and/or insurance companies not paying their bills....Well, I pay my debts people! In fact, I HATE debt..therefore, I'm good for it and will pay it off faithfully. I have been paying what I can when I go in, but it was hard to keep up, considering each appointment was $75 out of my pocket. My savings has taken a serious hit with this PT thing!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
5 miles...wait?...yep, 5 miles....
5 miles!
I haven't done 5 miles in months! But I did it this morning! It was rough...there was sweat (ALOT of it)...there was some hip tightness, there was some shuffling toward the end...but it happened! Obviously, it is pointless to say that humidity played somewhat of a factor (It's SUMMER!)...but I wanted to get the run out of the way before Power Pump class this morning. I decided to forgo the group run today...I just couldn't take the ADEQ route again. I think we've been there at least 3 times in the last 2 months and mentally, I wasn't up for that. I ran in my neighborhood, downtown, over into Little Rock and back. I was dripping in sweat, but I felt like I really accomplished something!
PT graduation has been postponed...mostly due to my overdoing it last week on the workouts. I think the Plyometrics does it to me EVERY time. I'm thinking that maybe I'm just not warmed up enough when I start doing all those drills and jump-squats...sigh...Yesterday's PT was HARD...every exercise felt hard and I felt like I had regressed. I definitely need to be more diligent about doing them at home, at least every other day. I can't go to PT forever! The financial part alone, is about to make me HAVE to quit. I'm hoping that I only have a few more sessions and I'm learning my limits.
On a good note, I busted out my new pair of running kicks (my New Balance 1224's) this morning and they felt WONDERFUL! And I also have a new pair of Brooks Adrenaline's that I will be wearing for my other workouts.....Sigh...new shoes are IT!
I haven't done 5 miles in months! But I did it this morning! It was rough...there was sweat (ALOT of it)...there was some hip tightness, there was some shuffling toward the end...but it happened! Obviously, it is pointless to say that humidity played somewhat of a factor (It's SUMMER!)...but I wanted to get the run out of the way before Power Pump class this morning. I decided to forgo the group run today...I just couldn't take the ADEQ route again. I think we've been there at least 3 times in the last 2 months and mentally, I wasn't up for that. I ran in my neighborhood, downtown, over into Little Rock and back. I was dripping in sweat, but I felt like I really accomplished something!
PT graduation has been postponed...mostly due to my overdoing it last week on the workouts. I think the Plyometrics does it to me EVERY time. I'm thinking that maybe I'm just not warmed up enough when I start doing all those drills and jump-squats...sigh...Yesterday's PT was HARD...every exercise felt hard and I felt like I had regressed. I definitely need to be more diligent about doing them at home, at least every other day. I can't go to PT forever! The financial part alone, is about to make me HAVE to quit. I'm hoping that I only have a few more sessions and I'm learning my limits.
On a good note, I busted out my new pair of running kicks (my New Balance 1224's) this morning and they felt WONDERFUL! And I also have a new pair of Brooks Adrenaline's that I will be wearing for my other workouts.....Sigh...new shoes are IT!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Sluggish day.....
Not much new in my running world...I ran 4 miles this morning with the LRM Group. I was debating on whether to run because my hip was a bit sore and tight last night. I did some of my PT exercises and stretches, iced it, and slapped several SalonPas patches on, to wear overnight. I think it helped, because it felt pretty decent this morning. The first few miles went well, but that last mile was killer hard for some reason. I didn't really have much discomfort in the hip, just felt sluggish. I didn't feel like it was overly hot or humid, compared to the last few days...but nevertheless, it was tough. Of course, I went to my Power Pump class and was able to finish, but felt sluggish there too. Not sure if it was not enough food and/or water this morning, or just being in need of more rest..or a combination of both. I may take tomorrow as a rest day too.
Yesterday was SUPPOSED to be my PT "graduation", but I think I did too much this week and made my hip sore. Hopefully, only one or 2 more sessions. Darby added another exercise and did active release again...which HURTS when it's being done, but after...oh so much better! I guess I have been extremely hard-headed about my exercising..I guess because I couldn't do a lot of it for so long and I'm glad to be back..but it definitely leads me to overdoing it. This week I did:
Monday- Boot camp type class and ran
Tuesday-Power Pump (weights)
Wednesday-Sculpt and ran
Thursday-Ran
Friday-rest day
Today-ran and Power Pump
It might not have been so bad, but that class on Monday kicked my a** and I was sore all week. EVERYTHING hurt...when I woke up the next morning, I was convinced I had the flu. Nope, just that dang class! I can only handle it once a week or less, it just ruins me for everything else, especially my running! I am on a loose schedule, training for the Soaring Wings Half Marathon in October. Right now, I'm trying to regularly get in 4 days a week of running and trying to build up the endurance. I'm between running/ walking 6:1 and 7:1...it's slowly improving. On the shoe front, I think I need to bust out a new pair. I'm starting to get a little knee pain when I run and that usually signals "it's time". I have started dating my shoes so I know when to change them, but my running has been so sporadic and so many fewer miles, that it's been hard to tell when to change pairs. I wasn't keeping track of my mileage for a while, just trying to run for time.
I want to get back on my spin bike soon. I miss it and I keep seeing all these tri's going on everywhere and I am getting the "itch" again!
Yesterday was SUPPOSED to be my PT "graduation", but I think I did too much this week and made my hip sore. Hopefully, only one or 2 more sessions. Darby added another exercise and did active release again...which HURTS when it's being done, but after...oh so much better! I guess I have been extremely hard-headed about my exercising..I guess because I couldn't do a lot of it for so long and I'm glad to be back..but it definitely leads me to overdoing it. This week I did:
Monday- Boot camp type class and ran
Tuesday-Power Pump (weights)
Wednesday-Sculpt and ran
Thursday-Ran
Friday-rest day
Today-ran and Power Pump
It might not have been so bad, but that class on Monday kicked my a** and I was sore all week. EVERYTHING hurt...when I woke up the next morning, I was convinced I had the flu. Nope, just that dang class! I can only handle it once a week or less, it just ruins me for everything else, especially my running! I am on a loose schedule, training for the Soaring Wings Half Marathon in October. Right now, I'm trying to regularly get in 4 days a week of running and trying to build up the endurance. I'm between running/ walking 6:1 and 7:1...it's slowly improving. On the shoe front, I think I need to bust out a new pair. I'm starting to get a little knee pain when I run and that usually signals "it's time". I have started dating my shoes so I know when to change them, but my running has been so sporadic and so many fewer miles, that it's been hard to tell when to change pairs. I wasn't keeping track of my mileage for a while, just trying to run for time.
I want to get back on my spin bike soon. I miss it and I keep seeing all these tri's going on everywhere and I am getting the "itch" again!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
I am HOT...in a sweaty kinda way....
It's not officially summer, but that does not stop Arkansas from busting out the 90 degree heat, 70 dew point,and 51% humidity to welcome me back to running! Time to break out my FAVORITE...the visor...to avoid the usual burning this time of year..and for those of you that know me...you know that I HATE visors and was being facetious in saying that...The good thing is that I scored a "cute" one (as cute as a visor CAN be) at the Runner's Roost in Colorado when I was there....
I officially have 2 more PT appointments and then I graduate! YIPPIE! I'm sure that I will probably have to continue my exercises, even after PT is over...but hey, I can can do my exercises at home FOR FREE! It is so encouraging to see such an improvement! I am back to enjoying my Sculpt classes twice a week, weight lifting twice a week, and running at least 3 times a week, soon to be 4. The runs, in general, seem to be getting better and I am trying to focus on building my time, and not worrying about my speed. Tom, "coach" of the LRM running group, has helped me put together a very conservative schedule for my planned half-marathon in October. I hope to also gradually work my way back onto my spinning bike...ahh....never so thankful to sweat...
I officially have 2 more PT appointments and then I graduate! YIPPIE! I'm sure that I will probably have to continue my exercises, even after PT is over...but hey, I can can do my exercises at home FOR FREE! It is so encouraging to see such an improvement! I am back to enjoying my Sculpt classes twice a week, weight lifting twice a week, and running at least 3 times a week, soon to be 4. The runs, in general, seem to be getting better and I am trying to focus on building my time, and not worrying about my speed. Tom, "coach" of the LRM running group, has helped me put together a very conservative schedule for my planned half-marathon in October. I hope to also gradually work my way back onto my spinning bike...ahh....never so thankful to sweat...
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
I'm Baaaaaaaack....
Well...it's been a WHILE since my last post! I can't believe it's already the middle of May...I have really been dreading the hot weather coming our way...summer is my least favorite season, but I'm sure the summer will go as fast as the rest of the year has been going, so maybe it won't be so bad!?! Cool weather will be here before I know it! And even though I am only just now getting out my summer clothes, it won't be long before I am dragging back out all those layers...Sigh...a girl can dream, right?
I am happy to say that I am back in the running world! It has been a long, SLOW process for sure. I wasn't able to consistently run the mileage or even think about doing speed work, so I was unable to do the WCR Clinic this year. I am still going to PT, but was informed yesterday (GRATEFULLY) that I only have a few more sessions before I "graduate"! I'm excited...not only because I am having so many pain-free days and am able to get back into the things I love to do...but because I will be free from the expensive $75 a session and the 2-3 hour chunk of time, twice a week! I am still doing the walk/run thing, and probably will be for a while, but I am up to 4.5 miles now and it has been a LONG time since I have been able to do that! I have also been able to go back to Sculpt class at the gym and this week is the first week I have been able to ride my spin bike, virtually pain-free! I can't say how good it feels to be back!
In other news, about 2 weeks ago, I was able to take a short vacay to Colorado and stay with my good friend Kristen, whom I hadn't seen in about 3 years. She lives in Lakewood, just outside Denver, and it was a great visit. I flew up there on a Thursday, courtesy of my little brother, who bought me a plane ticket with his frequent flyer miles! It was a huge relief, as I was NOT looking forward to the 14-15 hour drive. I picked up a rental car at the airport and after getting lost for a while, finally made it to Kristen's house. We spent some time catching up, amidst shopping at REI and Vitamin Cottage, followed by an AWESOME dinner at Watercourse Foods. I love that Denver has some great Vegetarian options, and if you are ever if the area, you have GOT to try this place! The following morning, Kristen and I awoke to a wonderland of whiteness, as it had snowed overnight and was starting to come down hard! We were supposed to drive to Estes Park that day for a weekend conference....Once the plow made it through, we were ok and it melted pretty fast. On the way to Estes, Kristen took me through Boulder and I seriously fell in love...
We hit up the World Market...I HAD to get my licorice Altoids..and were on our way to Estes. Of course, it started snowing crazy-hard, luckily we were behind a plow that, although it was slow, made the roads easy to drive on. We stayed at the YMCA Conference Center and it was bare-minimum basic, but pretty and clean. Kristen made me immediately check for bedbugs upon arrival and yay, no bugs! hehe....The Conference itself was pretty good. The focus was "The Centrality of the Cross" and was sponsored by the Association of Exchanged Life Ministries. I got some great resources for Bible study too. We had some free time on Saturday and Kristen wanted to take me to the Rocky Mountain National Park, since it was free that weekend, in honor of National Parks week. It was awesome...beautiful views, lots of elk grazing along the road...we snow hiked up to Nymph Lake and it was totally frozen over, people were hiking on it..
Sunday afternoon we headed back, but not before another stop in "The People's Republic of Boulder", as Kristen calls it..hehe...we did some looking around at the outdoor mall and hit up some awesome stores..Patagonia, Outdoor Divas, and several ethnic stores with imported goods. Boulder apparently has a large population of Nepalese people..Boulder was having it's Earth Day festival that day, so there were tons of booths, food, live music...and "hippie" people walking around. I don't know what it is, but I have always felt at home in that kind of environment...I guess maybe I am a hippie at heart? We tried a Vegan place called VG Foods and it was ok..I was expecting a bit more, and although my tempeh burger wasn't bad, it was overpriced and had no sides.
The rest of my visit included some great runs near Kristen's neighborhood and some trail hikes in the surrounding areas. We went to a great Nepalese restaurant in Golden..I did some looking around at thrift stores and the biggest Whole Foods I have ever seen! Kristen also took me to the Red Rock outdoor theater, the triceritops trail to see some dinosaur fossils, and the human body exhibit at the Museum of Nature and Science. I got to meet up with my cousin and stay with her one night and catch up. The trip was the perfect mix of sight-seeing, down time, catching up, and exploring. I had a bit of an issue with the altitude the first 2 days I was there...headache, fatigue..but it gradually got better with time and LOTS of water. The running stores in Denver are AWESOME and the running community is huge. If you ever get to Denver, go to The Runner's Roost and The Boulder Running Company. Both had an excellent selection, but my favorite was the Runner's Roost. The people were very down to earth and unpretentious, and their clearance table was awesome! I would love to go back to Colorado in June for the bluegrass festival....
There you have it...an update of sorts. As far as my running goes, I am trucking along and trying to stay realistic about my progress. I'm so thankful to be out there again, but it's hard not to be able to do the races I wanted to do this year. I think the Tupelo 14 miler is out this year, sad to say. I keep telling myself that taking my time will help me in the long run. I don't want to hinder my progress or hurt myself again, all for the sake of being able to do a race. I am sad that some of my friendships that seemed to come about through running seem pretty much non-exisitant, now that I can't do what I used to...but I guess I need to just accept that and move on. It hurts not to be included, but I don't want to hold people back. Thanks to those of you in Blogland who have been encouraging!
I am happy to say that I am back in the running world! It has been a long, SLOW process for sure. I wasn't able to consistently run the mileage or even think about doing speed work, so I was unable to do the WCR Clinic this year. I am still going to PT, but was informed yesterday (GRATEFULLY) that I only have a few more sessions before I "graduate"! I'm excited...not only because I am having so many pain-free days and am able to get back into the things I love to do...but because I will be free from the expensive $75 a session and the 2-3 hour chunk of time, twice a week! I am still doing the walk/run thing, and probably will be for a while, but I am up to 4.5 miles now and it has been a LONG time since I have been able to do that! I have also been able to go back to Sculpt class at the gym and this week is the first week I have been able to ride my spin bike, virtually pain-free! I can't say how good it feels to be back!
In other news, about 2 weeks ago, I was able to take a short vacay to Colorado and stay with my good friend Kristen, whom I hadn't seen in about 3 years. She lives in Lakewood, just outside Denver, and it was a great visit. I flew up there on a Thursday, courtesy of my little brother, who bought me a plane ticket with his frequent flyer miles! It was a huge relief, as I was NOT looking forward to the 14-15 hour drive. I picked up a rental car at the airport and after getting lost for a while, finally made it to Kristen's house. We spent some time catching up, amidst shopping at REI and Vitamin Cottage, followed by an AWESOME dinner at Watercourse Foods. I love that Denver has some great Vegetarian options, and if you are ever if the area, you have GOT to try this place! The following morning, Kristen and I awoke to a wonderland of whiteness, as it had snowed overnight and was starting to come down hard! We were supposed to drive to Estes Park that day for a weekend conference....Once the plow made it through, we were ok and it melted pretty fast. On the way to Estes, Kristen took me through Boulder and I seriously fell in love...
We hit up the World Market...I HAD to get my licorice Altoids..and were on our way to Estes. Of course, it started snowing crazy-hard, luckily we were behind a plow that, although it was slow, made the roads easy to drive on. We stayed at the YMCA Conference Center and it was bare-minimum basic, but pretty and clean. Kristen made me immediately check for bedbugs upon arrival and yay, no bugs! hehe....The Conference itself was pretty good. The focus was "The Centrality of the Cross" and was sponsored by the Association of Exchanged Life Ministries. I got some great resources for Bible study too. We had some free time on Saturday and Kristen wanted to take me to the Rocky Mountain National Park, since it was free that weekend, in honor of National Parks week. It was awesome...beautiful views, lots of elk grazing along the road...we snow hiked up to Nymph Lake and it was totally frozen over, people were hiking on it..
Sunday afternoon we headed back, but not before another stop in "The People's Republic of Boulder", as Kristen calls it..hehe...we did some looking around at the outdoor mall and hit up some awesome stores..Patagonia, Outdoor Divas, and several ethnic stores with imported goods. Boulder apparently has a large population of Nepalese people..Boulder was having it's Earth Day festival that day, so there were tons of booths, food, live music...and "hippie" people walking around. I don't know what it is, but I have always felt at home in that kind of environment...I guess maybe I am a hippie at heart? We tried a Vegan place called VG Foods and it was ok..I was expecting a bit more, and although my tempeh burger wasn't bad, it was overpriced and had no sides.
The rest of my visit included some great runs near Kristen's neighborhood and some trail hikes in the surrounding areas. We went to a great Nepalese restaurant in Golden..I did some looking around at thrift stores and the biggest Whole Foods I have ever seen! Kristen also took me to the Red Rock outdoor theater, the triceritops trail to see some dinosaur fossils, and the human body exhibit at the Museum of Nature and Science. I got to meet up with my cousin and stay with her one night and catch up. The trip was the perfect mix of sight-seeing, down time, catching up, and exploring. I had a bit of an issue with the altitude the first 2 days I was there...headache, fatigue..but it gradually got better with time and LOTS of water. The running stores in Denver are AWESOME and the running community is huge. If you ever get to Denver, go to The Runner's Roost and The Boulder Running Company. Both had an excellent selection, but my favorite was the Runner's Roost. The people were very down to earth and unpretentious, and their clearance table was awesome! I would love to go back to Colorado in June for the bluegrass festival....
There you have it...an update of sorts. As far as my running goes, I am trucking along and trying to stay realistic about my progress. I'm so thankful to be out there again, but it's hard not to be able to do the races I wanted to do this year. I think the Tupelo 14 miler is out this year, sad to say. I keep telling myself that taking my time will help me in the long run. I don't want to hinder my progress or hurt myself again, all for the sake of being able to do a race. I am sad that some of my friendships that seemed to come about through running seem pretty much non-exisitant, now that I can't do what I used to...but I guess I need to just accept that and move on. It hurts not to be included, but I don't want to hold people back. Thanks to those of you in Blogland who have been encouraging!
Monday, March 29, 2010
Quick update...
Not much to add lately...I am about to go to my next PT appt. Sadly, I think it's going to take more PT than I hoped to get myself "fixed up", if you will, but the good news is that I am having more pain free days and am able to actually squat...in my daily life and in weight lifting. I have been working on my upper body strength and that has improved, but I am still not able to use that much weight for squats or lunges...baby steps, baby steps...
The last run I attempted was several days ago and it didn't go very well...my hips were more sore than expected, my right IT Band was acting up and overall, I felt crappy. I tried to go after work and the weather was rather warm. I think I was a bit dehydrated from not being able to drink much water that day, and I just felt like a limp noodle! I hope to attempt it again this week.
Skip and Kim are running the Capital City Classic this coming weekend. I did that race last year and I'm sad that I can't do it again this year. I thought about signing up anyway, but I haven't even WALKED 6 miles in the past few months...best to wait, I think. I'm hoping to do a 5k in May and definitely not for speed. I will be out of town this year for the Catholic High Rocket City 5k....boo...but maybe this year I can do the Dino Dash? It's pretty hilly, so I will see...Off to PT!
The last run I attempted was several days ago and it didn't go very well...my hips were more sore than expected, my right IT Band was acting up and overall, I felt crappy. I tried to go after work and the weather was rather warm. I think I was a bit dehydrated from not being able to drink much water that day, and I just felt like a limp noodle! I hope to attempt it again this week.
Skip and Kim are running the Capital City Classic this coming weekend. I did that race last year and I'm sad that I can't do it again this year. I thought about signing up anyway, but I haven't even WALKED 6 miles in the past few months...best to wait, I think. I'm hoping to do a 5k in May and definitely not for speed. I will be out of town this year for the Catholic High Rocket City 5k....boo...but maybe this year I can do the Dino Dash? It's pretty hilly, so I will see...Off to PT!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
PT! PT! PT!
Well, it is def time for an update!
Good news folks: I am going to PT!
It all started with the LR Marathon Expo....I ended up going to the Expo with Skip (aka Cheryl) and Kim...(1) in support of them, (2) to check out all the latest cool running stuff, (3) to meet a new pal Jamie, whom I met via the blogging world. My friend and fellow hip-pain sufferer, Kelli, was there volunteering with packet pick up. Cheryl and Kim immediately went to pick up their packets and Kelli told me about a booth at the expo for a clinic called Innovative Spine Rehab. Well...I would have walked right by the booth, mostly based on the name, but she showed me the brochure she picked up and it said that they specialize in knee and hip problems too. Not only that, but there was a coupon inside for a FREE, yes folks you read that right..a FREE CONSULTATION. Well...needless to say, I hightailed it over there! Darby, the PT, asked about my problems/issues and said that I should call Monday to set up my appt. He said he would get me in within 48 hours of my call! I was EXCITED!
Of course, I called upon the clinic opening on Monday morning and was scheduled for an appt. on Wednesday morning! Wednesday morning came and I was excited but apprehensive..what if he couldn't do anything for me? It was the last thing I knew to do and I was worried...He, of course, did a series of tests in flexibility, alignment, etc. and told me that if it truly was a muscular issue, I would greatly benefit from 3-4 weeks of PT. Verdict: VERY WEAK HIPS. What surprised me most was that he didn't just say "here's what's wrong with you.." and push me out the door. He actually treated me that day, at no charge! He did Ultrasound, stem, exercises and ice. I was there for about 2 hours! Finally...HOPE on the horizon...I could immediately tell a difference in the tightness I had been feeling.
Now to the financial part of things...I was worried (yes, I'm a big worrier) that I wouldn't be able to afford the sessions at $75 each. Unfortunately, my insurance company would not pay until I met my deductible and because the PT clinic was "out of network", if I used them, they would double my deductible before they paid anything!!! Nothing short of HIGHWAY ROBBERY! Liz, an office manager, said that she would "work with me" on the fees and as long as I paid a little each visit, I would be okay...kind of like the old days of having a "tab" there...This was even better than having to put my therapy on my credit card!! I have had 3 sessions so far and I can't believe how weak my hips are!! But I am hopeful that I am on the road to recovery!! I can tell a difference, in general, in my flexibility and can now squat and lift my legs a little toward my chest. He hasn't banned me from running and I hope to get back to it soon...man, I MISS it! He did tell me not to run this weekend ( I had a strenuous workout yesterday) and I was glad I didn't try it (although, I thought about it) cause I am really sore! But, it's a good sore, not the usual "catch" feeling and tightness. I will ice today to help that, and my next appt. is on Monday! I am so thankful that I have been able to go. I really feel like God provided for my needs here and that means everything...especially since I have been feeling so hopeless and depressed. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me to hang in there and helped me keep things in perspective!!!!
Back to the expo...I met a great gal named Jamie!! We have been emailing back and forth for a few months after "meeting" via blogland. We don't know each other that well, but it was like running into an old friend when we met... SUPER encouraging, she has been praying for me and sending me uplifting emails for a while! Jamie, you are a lifesaver! I hope we can bond soon in person! The day of the marathon was, like I said, bittersweet...but it was fun cheering on all the runners with my sign "Good Luck Runners"...the same sign a friend made for me last year when I ran the race!..People loved it...even though I spilled coffee on it that morning and there was a big brown trickle down the front...haha..
I hope that I will have more positive results to report in the days to come. I'm keeping my expectations light...After I started feeling a little better, I started to imagine all the races I wanted to do..I had to reign myself in, cause I was putting pressure on myself. I would like to build up a good base, so I can start training this fall with the LRM group again to do the Hobbittom Challenge and LR Marathon next year in March. Not worried about speed, just wanting to run, PERIOD!
Good news folks: I am going to PT!
It all started with the LR Marathon Expo....I ended up going to the Expo with Skip (aka Cheryl) and Kim...(1) in support of them, (2) to check out all the latest cool running stuff, (3) to meet a new pal Jamie, whom I met via the blogging world. My friend and fellow hip-pain sufferer, Kelli, was there volunteering with packet pick up. Cheryl and Kim immediately went to pick up their packets and Kelli told me about a booth at the expo for a clinic called Innovative Spine Rehab. Well...I would have walked right by the booth, mostly based on the name, but she showed me the brochure she picked up and it said that they specialize in knee and hip problems too. Not only that, but there was a coupon inside for a FREE, yes folks you read that right..a FREE CONSULTATION. Well...needless to say, I hightailed it over there! Darby, the PT, asked about my problems/issues and said that I should call Monday to set up my appt. He said he would get me in within 48 hours of my call! I was EXCITED!
Of course, I called upon the clinic opening on Monday morning and was scheduled for an appt. on Wednesday morning! Wednesday morning came and I was excited but apprehensive..what if he couldn't do anything for me? It was the last thing I knew to do and I was worried...He, of course, did a series of tests in flexibility, alignment, etc. and told me that if it truly was a muscular issue, I would greatly benefit from 3-4 weeks of PT. Verdict: VERY WEAK HIPS. What surprised me most was that he didn't just say "here's what's wrong with you.." and push me out the door. He actually treated me that day, at no charge! He did Ultrasound, stem, exercises and ice. I was there for about 2 hours! Finally...HOPE on the horizon...I could immediately tell a difference in the tightness I had been feeling.
Now to the financial part of things...I was worried (yes, I'm a big worrier) that I wouldn't be able to afford the sessions at $75 each. Unfortunately, my insurance company would not pay until I met my deductible and because the PT clinic was "out of network", if I used them, they would double my deductible before they paid anything!!! Nothing short of HIGHWAY ROBBERY! Liz, an office manager, said that she would "work with me" on the fees and as long as I paid a little each visit, I would be okay...kind of like the old days of having a "tab" there...This was even better than having to put my therapy on my credit card!! I have had 3 sessions so far and I can't believe how weak my hips are!! But I am hopeful that I am on the road to recovery!! I can tell a difference, in general, in my flexibility and can now squat and lift my legs a little toward my chest. He hasn't banned me from running and I hope to get back to it soon...man, I MISS it! He did tell me not to run this weekend ( I had a strenuous workout yesterday) and I was glad I didn't try it (although, I thought about it) cause I am really sore! But, it's a good sore, not the usual "catch" feeling and tightness. I will ice today to help that, and my next appt. is on Monday! I am so thankful that I have been able to go. I really feel like God provided for my needs here and that means everything...especially since I have been feeling so hopeless and depressed. Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me to hang in there and helped me keep things in perspective!!!!
Back to the expo...I met a great gal named Jamie!! We have been emailing back and forth for a few months after "meeting" via blogland. We don't know each other that well, but it was like running into an old friend when we met... SUPER encouraging, she has been praying for me and sending me uplifting emails for a while! Jamie, you are a lifesaver! I hope we can bond soon in person! The day of the marathon was, like I said, bittersweet...but it was fun cheering on all the runners with my sign "Good Luck Runners"...the same sign a friend made for me last year when I ran the race!..People loved it...even though I spilled coffee on it that morning and there was a big brown trickle down the front...haha..
I hope that I will have more positive results to report in the days to come. I'm keeping my expectations light...After I started feeling a little better, I started to imagine all the races I wanted to do..I had to reign myself in, cause I was putting pressure on myself. I would like to build up a good base, so I can start training this fall with the LRM group again to do the Hobbittom Challenge and LR Marathon next year in March. Not worried about speed, just wanting to run, PERIOD!
Monday, March 1, 2010
This is getting old...........
I wish I could say that a lot has changed and that I am running and exercising up a storm...but alas, that is no where near reality!
About 10 days ago I finally got an appt with my Ortho MD and he confirmed MY diagnosis of hip flexor strain/tendinitis...I swear, I should be my own MD....Anyway, he pretty much said "If it hurts, don't do it..." and didn't ban me from running, although he did prohibit cycling, which he believes was the culprit this time. I asked about steroids and PT and he was agreeable to both. I am NOT one to push medications if I can avoid it, but I have been on NSAIDS for a month with no noticeable results, so I was hoping that steroids would decrease the inflammation long enough to start the healing and I would be able to start stretching/exercises that would help me bounce back. Well, I got my steroids without much problem...but the PT, that was another story...Basically, down to brass tacks, I can't afford it. I haven't met any of my health insurance deductible for this year and would have to pay totally out of pocket for all of it. The first visit alone, the assessment, is between $250 and $300...too rich for my blood!
Now, 10 days later...I am fatter and sleep deprived, but the steroids don't seem to have helped at all. As a matter of fact, my hip has hurt worse this week than the past few weeks combined. I'm not sure if I pulled it again or what...but I am about to pull my hair out! The Doc did do an x-ray, nothing spectacular there..and suggested that an MRI might be more definitive but didn't feel that it was especially necessary at this point. Kelli, my fellow running pal and hip pain sufferer, had a mini Ortho massage last week and said that it really seemed to help her. I am now contemplating the same thing. I have a recommendation from a fellow runner that swears by the guy she sees...I asked a PT friend at work if he thought it might benefit me, and he said it could help, as long as I don't get a deep tissue massage, which, in his words, "basically bruises you up on the inside!"....The suggested massage guy only takes appointments by recommendation and an hour and a half massage is $85..we'll see....
Today is the beginning of the Women Can Run Clinic in Cabot and I am signed up...I really thought that by now I would be ready for it...but I am wondering if I will even be able to do it at all... I haven't run in over a week, since my hip has been hurting worse...but I guess I can walk for now and get some sort of exercise...Sigh...There was hope on the horizon in telling myself that this whole thing was temporary and that I would be able to exercise again...but....I am helpless as to how long it takes for my body to heal and, aside from the massage, I've done all I know to do. I guess it could be worse, and I'm thankful it's not...but I REALLY miss being active. This next weekend is the Little Rock Marathon and it is definitely bittersweet...I was really wanting to do the Half and am relegated to being on the sidelines. Don't get me wrong, I love cheering on my running pals and I definitely have a lot of friends doing the race...I miss being out there myself...I miss the good kind of soreness from a great workout, working up a good sweat, and the time with friends that share the same activities.
Not to moan and groan, folks....but this is getting OLD!
About 10 days ago I finally got an appt with my Ortho MD and he confirmed MY diagnosis of hip flexor strain/tendinitis...I swear, I should be my own MD....Anyway, he pretty much said "If it hurts, don't do it..." and didn't ban me from running, although he did prohibit cycling, which he believes was the culprit this time. I asked about steroids and PT and he was agreeable to both. I am NOT one to push medications if I can avoid it, but I have been on NSAIDS for a month with no noticeable results, so I was hoping that steroids would decrease the inflammation long enough to start the healing and I would be able to start stretching/exercises that would help me bounce back. Well, I got my steroids without much problem...but the PT, that was another story...Basically, down to brass tacks, I can't afford it. I haven't met any of my health insurance deductible for this year and would have to pay totally out of pocket for all of it. The first visit alone, the assessment, is between $250 and $300...too rich for my blood!
Now, 10 days later...I am fatter and sleep deprived, but the steroids don't seem to have helped at all. As a matter of fact, my hip has hurt worse this week than the past few weeks combined. I'm not sure if I pulled it again or what...but I am about to pull my hair out! The Doc did do an x-ray, nothing spectacular there..and suggested that an MRI might be more definitive but didn't feel that it was especially necessary at this point. Kelli, my fellow running pal and hip pain sufferer, had a mini Ortho massage last week and said that it really seemed to help her. I am now contemplating the same thing. I have a recommendation from a fellow runner that swears by the guy she sees...I asked a PT friend at work if he thought it might benefit me, and he said it could help, as long as I don't get a deep tissue massage, which, in his words, "basically bruises you up on the inside!"....The suggested massage guy only takes appointments by recommendation and an hour and a half massage is $85..we'll see....
Today is the beginning of the Women Can Run Clinic in Cabot and I am signed up...I really thought that by now I would be ready for it...but I am wondering if I will even be able to do it at all... I haven't run in over a week, since my hip has been hurting worse...but I guess I can walk for now and get some sort of exercise...Sigh...There was hope on the horizon in telling myself that this whole thing was temporary and that I would be able to exercise again...but....I am helpless as to how long it takes for my body to heal and, aside from the massage, I've done all I know to do. I guess it could be worse, and I'm thankful it's not...but I REALLY miss being active. This next weekend is the Little Rock Marathon and it is definitely bittersweet...I was really wanting to do the Half and am relegated to being on the sidelines. Don't get me wrong, I love cheering on my running pals and I definitely have a lot of friends doing the race...I miss being out there myself...I miss the good kind of soreness from a great workout, working up a good sweat, and the time with friends that share the same activities.
Not to moan and groan, folks....but this is getting OLD!
Friday, February 12, 2010
Something borrowed...something blue...and preferably not too tight..
I borrowed this from OneLittleTriGirl...
Current Book: Which one? I am always in the middle of several books, of varying genre..
"Loving God with all your Mind" by Elizabeth George
" Blind Alley" byIris Johansen (just found this author..not sure about her yet)
"The Simple Living guide" by Janet Luhrs
Current Shame-"The United States of Tara"...vulgar and crass, but the acting is superb!
Current Colors: Blue...as in scrub-pant blue...I live in scrub pants these days, since they are the least restrictive thing I own and I'm having lots of "fat days", since I can't work out
Current Obsessions: finding SOME way to work out and not hurt myself...and so I don't become a blob of jello
Current Drink: Green Tea Chai
Current Song: “Love Bites" by Def Leppoard
Current Wish-List: To be able to exercise...spin, run, plyometrics, yoga, Pilates..basically to be able to do all these things!
Current Need: Relief from pain and inflammation (some good steroids and maybe some PT and Electrotherapy for my hip), better eating habits, fellowship with good, like-minded friends, a new church home
Current Triumph: Trying to reconnect with neglected friends
Current Bane of my Existence: Hip pain, nuff said
Current Goal: Complete my Nursing continuing education by the end of February
Current Blessing: My friend Sara
Current Indulgence: Toffutti Butter pecan frozen dessert....man, that stuff is DELISH!
Current Excitement: Maybe getting to go visit my friend Kristen in Colorado in April!
What about you guys?
Current Book: Which one? I am always in the middle of several books, of varying genre..
"Loving God with all your Mind" by Elizabeth George
" Blind Alley" byIris Johansen (just found this author..not sure about her yet)
"The Simple Living guide" by Janet Luhrs
Current Shame-"The United States of Tara"...vulgar and crass, but the acting is superb!
Current Colors: Blue...as in scrub-pant blue...I live in scrub pants these days, since they are the least restrictive thing I own and I'm having lots of "fat days", since I can't work out
Current Obsessions: finding SOME way to work out and not hurt myself...and so I don't become a blob of jello
Current Drink: Green Tea Chai
Current Song: “Love Bites" by Def Leppoard
Current Wish-List: To be able to exercise...spin, run, plyometrics, yoga, Pilates..basically to be able to do all these things!
Current Need: Relief from pain and inflammation (some good steroids and maybe some PT and Electrotherapy for my hip), better eating habits, fellowship with good, like-minded friends, a new church home
Current Triumph: Trying to reconnect with neglected friends
Current Bane of my Existence: Hip pain, nuff said
Current Goal: Complete my Nursing continuing education by the end of February
Current Blessing: My friend Sara
Current Indulgence: Toffutti Butter pecan frozen dessert....man, that stuff is DELISH!
Current Excitement: Maybe getting to go visit my friend Kristen in Colorado in April!
What about you guys?
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Randomness....
This will be a very random post...so, just warning you!
First of all...the snow here is crazy!
My last run was on Friday (?) I think, and it went fairly well. I was able to do 3.67 miles..but I had to do the walk/run thing. I guess I've had an all-or-nothing attitude about running. If I couldn't run, I wouldn't do anything. It wasn't until I talked to my pal, Kelli (who has been having hip issues also) and she mentioned that she was doing the walk/run thing to get back into it. So I tried it, 4 min running, 2 minutes walking. The hip felt great, although I had to stop before my goal of 4 miles. Better than nothing, I guess. Now, with the crazy snow and ice...even walking is not going to happen.
I am thoroughly depressed about my recent weight gain...but when I went from burning about 3000 calories (at least) a week, to about 300-400 and kept eating the same way, it was bound to happen! After viciously berating myself and a crying jag after looking at my ever-growing ass in the mirror...I reminded myself that it didn't happen overnight, and it won't come off overnight! However, heaping the criticism and name calling on myself has never helped, and even made things worse...and so I admit, fully and wholeheartedly that I need to lose weight and I start anew at my attempt to eat not only healthier, but in proportion to my calorie needs..Sigh...I never want to take my body for granted again. I love all the things that it can do and I'm sad when I can't be active. On a deeper, more philosophical and spiritual level, I am seriously placing my worth based on my weight and looks and need some fresh perspective.
I saw the movie "Lost in Austen" yesterday. I watched it online via Netflix when my satellite was out. Now, for those who know me...I have NEVER been a Jane Austen fan (except in the case of Emma)...I tried to read Pride and Prejudice several times and got insanely frustrated with the excessively superfluous descriptions..and I usually LOVE details! Not to mention, the very irritating character of the mother Mrs. Bennett, that was enough to kill it for me! But THIS movie...it was awesome!!! And...dare I say...it may have aroused the desire in me to give Jane Austen another chance...? GASP! For those of you that have never heard of it, it is about a girl obsessed with all things Jane Austen, especially Pride and Prejudice. Somehow, a portal, if you will, is opened between her world and the world of Elizabeth Bennett via her bathroom wall. She enters the story, screws it all up and changes the fates of herself and everyone in the story. WATCH IT! But beware,it's almost 3 hours long.
On the family front, my Aunt and Uncle were in town this weekend and it was a great visit. I am not very close to our extended family and the last time they came to visit, things were a bit strained due to some issues that arose after my grandma died a few years ago. I think lately, since I have been spending so much time by myself, in somewhat of an isolated existance, I have been in dire need of human contact. Maybe so much, that I was willing to take it in the form of family (hehe)...but I realized how selfish I have been in the time that I do spend with other people. Wierd....Tammy's growing up....
First of all...the snow here is crazy!
My last run was on Friday (?) I think, and it went fairly well. I was able to do 3.67 miles..but I had to do the walk/run thing. I guess I've had an all-or-nothing attitude about running. If I couldn't run, I wouldn't do anything. It wasn't until I talked to my pal, Kelli (who has been having hip issues also) and she mentioned that she was doing the walk/run thing to get back into it. So I tried it, 4 min running, 2 minutes walking. The hip felt great, although I had to stop before my goal of 4 miles. Better than nothing, I guess. Now, with the crazy snow and ice...even walking is not going to happen.
I am thoroughly depressed about my recent weight gain...but when I went from burning about 3000 calories (at least) a week, to about 300-400 and kept eating the same way, it was bound to happen! After viciously berating myself and a crying jag after looking at my ever-growing ass in the mirror...I reminded myself that it didn't happen overnight, and it won't come off overnight! However, heaping the criticism and name calling on myself has never helped, and even made things worse...and so I admit, fully and wholeheartedly that I need to lose weight and I start anew at my attempt to eat not only healthier, but in proportion to my calorie needs..Sigh...I never want to take my body for granted again. I love all the things that it can do and I'm sad when I can't be active. On a deeper, more philosophical and spiritual level, I am seriously placing my worth based on my weight and looks and need some fresh perspective.
I saw the movie "Lost in Austen" yesterday. I watched it online via Netflix when my satellite was out. Now, for those who know me...I have NEVER been a Jane Austen fan (except in the case of Emma)...I tried to read Pride and Prejudice several times and got insanely frustrated with the excessively superfluous descriptions..and I usually LOVE details! Not to mention, the very irritating character of the mother Mrs. Bennett, that was enough to kill it for me! But THIS movie...it was awesome!!! And...dare I say...it may have aroused the desire in me to give Jane Austen another chance...? GASP! For those of you that have never heard of it, it is about a girl obsessed with all things Jane Austen, especially Pride and Prejudice. Somehow, a portal, if you will, is opened between her world and the world of Elizabeth Bennett via her bathroom wall. She enters the story, screws it all up and changes the fates of herself and everyone in the story. WATCH IT! But beware,it's almost 3 hours long.
On the family front, my Aunt and Uncle were in town this weekend and it was a great visit. I am not very close to our extended family and the last time they came to visit, things were a bit strained due to some issues that arose after my grandma died a few years ago. I think lately, since I have been spending so much time by myself, in somewhat of an isolated existance, I have been in dire need of human contact. Maybe so much, that I was willing to take it in the form of family (hehe)...but I realized how selfish I have been in the time that I do spend with other people. Wierd....Tammy's growing up....
Monday, February 1, 2010
I'm NOT getting there...running....cycling, swimming, or anything else....
Ok...contrary to my blog title...I'm not getting anywhere...I got a 2 miler in yesterday before the hip pain started again....Well, it was more of a tightness than pain. I hadn't run since last Sunday, thinking if I took a rest, it might help. I tried swimming...I don't think it hurt, necessarily, but I don't think it helped either. I'm pretty sure at this point that I have a hip flexor strain, so anything that involves pulling my knee toward my chest does NOT work. I can't cycle...I tried getting on the bike yesterday, even with no resistance, it made me sore, and that was less than 2 minutes! I can't get an appointment with my MD until the 15th of February...and I'm not sure I want to go, even though all I have done does not seem to be working. I'm basically thinking he is going to tell me it is a hip flexor strain or tendinitis and have me do all the things I have already been doing. And I'm kind-of thinking he might order an MRI, of which I cannot afford... And all that $ down the drain....sigh...
I've wondered about exercises to help the area, but most of them are to be done after the pain has completely gone away. I've tried to do some core strengthening exercises but the stretching actually seems to pull on my hip and I'm scared to make it worse. At this point, I'm willing to do just about anything to start making some progress. I saw a video online about wrapping the hip. Supposedly, the compression is supposed to help support it. I guess I'll give that a go, as long as I don't have to go out in public with ace wrapped around my butt and groin...
Someone PLEASE tell me something encouraging. On top of all this immobility and general sluggishness from not being able to do any form of cardio that doesn't hurt, I'm turning into a lard-ball.....
I've wondered about exercises to help the area, but most of them are to be done after the pain has completely gone away. I've tried to do some core strengthening exercises but the stretching actually seems to pull on my hip and I'm scared to make it worse. At this point, I'm willing to do just about anything to start making some progress. I saw a video online about wrapping the hip. Supposedly, the compression is supposed to help support it. I guess I'll give that a go, as long as I don't have to go out in public with ace wrapped around my butt and groin...
Someone PLEASE tell me something encouraging. On top of all this immobility and general sluggishness from not being able to do any form of cardio that doesn't hurt, I'm turning into a lard-ball.....
Monday, January 25, 2010
I need some cardio in my life...
Ugh...this hip situation is getting old...I can't spin, ellipticize (like my new word?), do just about any type of leg workout, minimal Pilates...because of the old hip...I can run, but yesterday the hip was pretty sore after my longest run yet, a whopping 5 miler...Even then, I have to have rest days between my runs and it is driving me crazy!
I am wondering about how swimming will help me in this time of trial (hehe... I know I'm exaggerating)...I've heard mixed things..some people advising me not to, some people saying it might help. Any suggestions? I'm not the best swimmer..in fact, I suck at it...But I can lie on my back and kick and pretty much doggie paddle and do a lame breast stroke the involves lost of wasted energy...
I am wondering about how swimming will help me in this time of trial (hehe... I know I'm exaggerating)...I've heard mixed things..some people advising me not to, some people saying it might help. Any suggestions? I'm not the best swimmer..in fact, I suck at it...But I can lie on my back and kick and pretty much doggie paddle and do a lame breast stroke the involves lost of wasted energy...
Saturday, January 23, 2010
A change in plans...all over the place!
So...not too much new on the running front...I wisely declined the run on Rhaling Rd. today..my hip has been sore on and off all week and I figured it would be best to skip it. Sad... :( I realized that the squats I have been doing while working out have NOT been helping my hip, so I ventured to Power Pump at the gym today but did NO leg stuff! This week I got a few short runs in...the last one I had to cut short at 3.4 miles because of the hip pain. Tomorrow I will most likely be running 4-5 miles (fingers crossed) at the very FLAT Murray Park with some of the Sunday Crackhead group.
I can already see some alterations in my racing "plan" for this year...I have decided to decline the "Oh-so-gracious" offer of Skip to do the Ragnar Relay in October. I really wanted to make sure of my decision before I said anything...I hate being flaky! There are several reasons I have decided not to do it. There is a conference I would like to attend in Estes Park, CO in April and I would get to bunk with one of my oldest and dearest friends! It has been years since I have seen her and I keep giving her the "I can't afford it" excuse for a while now. The price of the relay vs. the trip to Co would end up being about the same, and I can't do both. Secondly, hoping that I haven't crippled myself by a stupid workout decision or injury, I just really want to do the Soaring Wings Half Marathon again!
Part of my waffling on the decision has been the fear that if I don't do THIS relay, I won't ever do one at all. As far as I can tell, this fear is unfounded and I'm just trying to avoid feeling "left out" again. Ever since my injuries have kept me sidelined, I feel like I should grab every opportunity to run with my running pals or I will get "left behind" or "forgotten"...As much as this feeling sucks, I'm tired of making my decisions based on fear. I do everything I can do avoid disappointment, but sometimes things just don't happen the way you want them to. And it's okay to be disappointed. But sometimes...even though you can't see it right away, it ends up leading to something even better...I haven't made my conference reservations yet, but I'm really hoping to go. I will miss out on the Rocket 5k this year if I go...but I figure going to Colorado AND getting to see my good friend are a decent trade :)
I can already see some alterations in my racing "plan" for this year...I have decided to decline the "Oh-so-gracious" offer of Skip to do the Ragnar Relay in October. I really wanted to make sure of my decision before I said anything...I hate being flaky! There are several reasons I have decided not to do it. There is a conference I would like to attend in Estes Park, CO in April and I would get to bunk with one of my oldest and dearest friends! It has been years since I have seen her and I keep giving her the "I can't afford it" excuse for a while now. The price of the relay vs. the trip to Co would end up being about the same, and I can't do both. Secondly, hoping that I haven't crippled myself by a stupid workout decision or injury, I just really want to do the Soaring Wings Half Marathon again!
Part of my waffling on the decision has been the fear that if I don't do THIS relay, I won't ever do one at all. As far as I can tell, this fear is unfounded and I'm just trying to avoid feeling "left out" again. Ever since my injuries have kept me sidelined, I feel like I should grab every opportunity to run with my running pals or I will get "left behind" or "forgotten"...As much as this feeling sucks, I'm tired of making my decisions based on fear. I do everything I can do avoid disappointment, but sometimes things just don't happen the way you want them to. And it's okay to be disappointed. But sometimes...even though you can't see it right away, it ends up leading to something even better...I haven't made my conference reservations yet, but I'm really hoping to go. I will miss out on the Rocket 5k this year if I go...but I figure going to Colorado AND getting to see my good friend are a decent trade :)
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Back to the LRM training group and a few fitness goals...
Today was my first day back with the LRM training group....oh how I have missed thee! And....the first time I have done 4 miles since November...IT'S ABOUT TIME!
I met Cheryl and Kim at the Capitol this morning for the run. I told them, of course, that I would be a little slow, but they stuck with me for 3 miles. My foot is much better and I had no foot issues today, HOWEVER...you knew it was coming, didn't you? Somehow I "jacked up" my hip again this week and it has been sore for a few days. It felt a little tight on Tuesday, and I did the "smart" thing (NOT) and went to sculpt on Wednesday, thinking "I'll just take it easy in class"...Well, Wednesday was Charla's night to experiment with all sorts of new moves, and I knew I hadn't made it any better...Geez...So, I've been "babying it"...popping Ibuprofen, Mobic, Darvocet....icing it/ using the hot sock, SalonPas and avoiding spinning..even though it is taking everything in me not to spin today. The run went better than expected, but my hip did start that oh-so-lovely "pulling" feeling around mile 3, and I took my time. I definitely want it to be better for next weekend's Rhaling Rd. route, a route that I have surprisingly come to love. I love to tackle those hills...I would rather do hills all day long, as opposed to speed work, but I digress...
It was so nice to catch up with the girls a little bit and I am looking forward to continuing the Saturday morning runs! I plan to run again on Monday, and I am already excited about it.
As far as the new year goes, I'm not a big resolution person, but I have some general goals I would like to accomplish. I have made several goals in each area of my life that I want to see change (financial, personal relationships, health, work). As far as my health goals:
1. Attempt to drink the standard 8 8oz. glasses of water a day. I know I need it. I know it's good for me. It helps my stomach "issues". There is no reason not to.
2. Try a new vegetable and/or fruit every month.
3. Re-incorporate Pilates into my fitness routine. I would like to do it, at least, 2x a week.
4. Increase the amount of stretching I do, about 5 minutes after every workout.
5. Be consistent with taking my glucosamine, Vit C, Mobic, bee pollen and multivitamin every day or at least, every other day.
6. Air up the tires on my bike and get outside to ride!
7. Cut back on processed foods and sugar. Switch from Splenda to Stevia.
8. Do the 'Women Can Run' Clinic this spring (March-May)
9. After my Gu is gone, try to make my own natural energy gels or use natural foods to fuel on my runs.
10. Return to my green smoothies, 3-4 times a week.
11. Continue strength training 2-3 times/wk.
These are the things that I want to accomplish to make myself more healthy. Notice I didn't say "lose weight". It just so happens that I naturally tend to lose weight when I do these things anyway, which I wouldn't mind! I would LOVE to see gains in my endurance and strength even more, though!
I have to give my answer about doing the Ragnar relay to Cheryl by Monday..and I'm waffling about whether to do it or not. Financially, it's not TOO expensive..I mean, there is the flight, food and race registration, but I have quite a few months to pay for it or pay my credit card off..It definitely sounds fun and I would like to try a 24 hour relay, especially with a friend. I'm actually praying about this one. In fact, I'm praying about my running in general these days. It had become an all-too-consuming thing in my life and I want to keep things in perspective. I sense the freedom to do the relay at this point...but not 100% sure. I want to do the Soaring Wings Half Marathon this year, so I need see what date it falls on. My next post will tell!
I met Cheryl and Kim at the Capitol this morning for the run. I told them, of course, that I would be a little slow, but they stuck with me for 3 miles. My foot is much better and I had no foot issues today, HOWEVER...you knew it was coming, didn't you? Somehow I "jacked up" my hip again this week and it has been sore for a few days. It felt a little tight on Tuesday, and I did the "smart" thing (NOT) and went to sculpt on Wednesday, thinking "I'll just take it easy in class"...Well, Wednesday was Charla's night to experiment with all sorts of new moves, and I knew I hadn't made it any better...Geez...So, I've been "babying it"...popping Ibuprofen, Mobic, Darvocet....icing it/ using the hot sock, SalonPas and avoiding spinning..even though it is taking everything in me not to spin today. The run went better than expected, but my hip did start that oh-so-lovely "pulling" feeling around mile 3, and I took my time. I definitely want it to be better for next weekend's Rhaling Rd. route, a route that I have surprisingly come to love. I love to tackle those hills...I would rather do hills all day long, as opposed to speed work, but I digress...
It was so nice to catch up with the girls a little bit and I am looking forward to continuing the Saturday morning runs! I plan to run again on Monday, and I am already excited about it.
As far as the new year goes, I'm not a big resolution person, but I have some general goals I would like to accomplish. I have made several goals in each area of my life that I want to see change (financial, personal relationships, health, work). As far as my health goals:
1. Attempt to drink the standard 8 8oz. glasses of water a day. I know I need it. I know it's good for me. It helps my stomach "issues". There is no reason not to.
2. Try a new vegetable and/or fruit every month.
3. Re-incorporate Pilates into my fitness routine. I would like to do it, at least, 2x a week.
4. Increase the amount of stretching I do, about 5 minutes after every workout.
5. Be consistent with taking my glucosamine, Vit C, Mobic, bee pollen and multivitamin every day or at least, every other day.
6. Air up the tires on my bike and get outside to ride!
7. Cut back on processed foods and sugar. Switch from Splenda to Stevia.
8. Do the 'Women Can Run' Clinic this spring (March-May)
9. After my Gu is gone, try to make my own natural energy gels or use natural foods to fuel on my runs.
10. Return to my green smoothies, 3-4 times a week.
11. Continue strength training 2-3 times/wk.
These are the things that I want to accomplish to make myself more healthy. Notice I didn't say "lose weight". It just so happens that I naturally tend to lose weight when I do these things anyway, which I wouldn't mind! I would LOVE to see gains in my endurance and strength even more, though!
I have to give my answer about doing the Ragnar relay to Cheryl by Monday..and I'm waffling about whether to do it or not. Financially, it's not TOO expensive..I mean, there is the flight, food and race registration, but I have quite a few months to pay for it or pay my credit card off..It definitely sounds fun and I would like to try a 24 hour relay, especially with a friend. I'm actually praying about this one. In fact, I'm praying about my running in general these days. It had become an all-too-consuming thing in my life and I want to keep things in perspective. I sense the freedom to do the relay at this point...but not 100% sure. I want to do the Soaring Wings Half Marathon this year, so I need see what date it falls on. My next post will tell!
Monday, January 11, 2010
Running "success"...
Well...today marks the 2nd consecutive "successful" run, since my marathon. What is "success"? First...getting my hiney outside in the cold temps...What can I say? This cold weather has got me down. Second, no foot pain! Being able to tie my shoes tighter has been a major breakthrough! Third, finally breaking the 3 mile mark. It has been surprisingly difficult, with my lack of consistency and motivation...
I have not committed, but am about 90% sure that I will be doing the LR Relay on March 7th. I am excited! I had pretty much given up that I would be able to do it...or that a team would be forming this late...but I am now in touch with a girl who just moved to LR from Ohio, who is interested in doing the relay. I was a bit tense about running with people who wanted to set some kind of speed record, but she appears to be walking her leg of the relay, so no pressure on me to be super-speedy. This is just the motivation I need to "get back in the game", without too much pressure to perform and be tempted to over train and hurt myself. Plus, I get to be part of the marathon festivities, instead of totally missing out...with Kim and Cheryl doing the marathon that day! Thanks to Caitlin of Healthy Tipping Point for connecting Michele and I!
I will probably stick to 3-4 mile runs for the next week or two and see how it goes. My routes have been flat, so the hills will be another issue, but one step at a time. I am just so thankful to be "out there"..it has done amazing things for me...mentally and emotionally, to be running again....Cheryl has mentioned doing a relay in October in Las Vegas and I am tempted! Keep you posted on that!
I have not committed, but am about 90% sure that I will be doing the LR Relay on March 7th. I am excited! I had pretty much given up that I would be able to do it...or that a team would be forming this late...but I am now in touch with a girl who just moved to LR from Ohio, who is interested in doing the relay. I was a bit tense about running with people who wanted to set some kind of speed record, but she appears to be walking her leg of the relay, so no pressure on me to be super-speedy. This is just the motivation I need to "get back in the game", without too much pressure to perform and be tempted to over train and hurt myself. Plus, I get to be part of the marathon festivities, instead of totally missing out...with Kim and Cheryl doing the marathon that day! Thanks to Caitlin of Healthy Tipping Point for connecting Michele and I!
I will probably stick to 3-4 mile runs for the next week or two and see how it goes. My routes have been flat, so the hills will be another issue, but one step at a time. I am just so thankful to be "out there"..it has done amazing things for me...mentally and emotionally, to be running again....Cheryl has mentioned doing a relay in October in Las Vegas and I am tempted! Keep you posted on that!
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