I’ve taken myself off the running circuit – for the moment, for awhile and perhaps even beyond that.
People have been asking when my next race is, what I’m training for and in general how goes the running. The answer has been a constant, yet steady hesitation leading to a mostly wishy-washy one.
But here’s the truth (because I feel honesty is the best policy and I’m a fairly open book): For personal reasons I am physically unable to run. The pain typically hits me about 1-2 miles in. I have tried to push right on through it. And I did push through it, 13.1 miles to the finish line at the Las Vegas Rock ‘n Roll Half Marathon last December (this has been going on over a year now). I have spent many-a-runs in pain thinking, “Am I going to throw up? How much longer before this run is over?”
Recently, the day came when I decided it was time to stop pushing. I love running. I love the “life” that used to come to me around mile 7. I love the running community. I love the sense of accomplishment. I love training hard for a race, knowing that the finish line will be waiting for me. I love watching my times drop. I love sprinting. I love hills. I love running outside in gorgeous Northern California.
So this is not easy for me. It is not ideal. And I’m praying that this isn’t forever. I am the first to admit that when it comes to pushing myself to the limits I am stubborn! I don’t know when to stop, and I don’t know how to “let up.” This applies to my professional life, food life and fitness life. But something needs to change.
I preach a healthy lifestyle. Part of that is this whole idea of listening to our bodies and adjusting workouts if need be. Just because you don’t run a half marathon frequently, or workout 7 days a week for 2 hours at a time, does not mean fitness can’t be a part of your vocabulary.
Still, this has not been easy for me, but I have slowly and surely been doing this. I have taken baby steps.
Off the Running Circuit
The first step was in departing with running for now. (Recently)
The second step was in realizing that my uber-intense workouts (spinning, circuits, kickboxing, etc.) were not any better for my body at this moment. (Very recently)
And the third step? Here I am. (Yes, this idea of “listening to my body” has transpired very quickly.)
My third step means figuring out what workouts will work for me. With my colitis and food I’ve always said, “Solutions, not Problems.” I intend to take that very same approach with my fitness. So far I have 3 solutions:
- Walking. Daily. And standing at my desk. Always!
- Weight training, but just not vigorously and with circuit-training programs.
- Yoga. Om!
I am still working on more. But I am confident they are lurking around the corner, anticipating my arrival.
Like everything else in life, you do what you can with what you’ve got and you count your blessings (not once, but a hundred times) for all beautiful things life gives each day!
And I still love you, running.
Until we meet again….
p.s. Updated in 2019 to add: What I Really Think About Workouts and Gut Healing.
Xox,
SKH
You will heal. I will help.
Taking a break in the action is a great thing (from time to time), and it is always great to assess / reassess your current situation and workout routine! I have been slacking on my running, and I (now) have to build everything back up, but it can be done. In your case, I hope that you are able to find something that works really well for you! Just remain patient and confident… then, as things progress, adapt and overcome! It is good to see that you are remaining positive about your current inner conflict! I am anxious to hear how the new workout is progressing and when you are able to (pain-free) run again!
Thanks, Dwayne! I’m headed to do some Pilates tonight. Again, not running DOES NOT equal not working out and moving daily!
I’m glad to hear you’re listening to your body and doing what feels right, even if it’s difficult. The best thing about any sport, including running, is that you can always revisit them when your lifestyle and body are ready. I think a lot of us, if we’re honest, think we’d like to quit at times (and maybe even probably should!) but struggle onward and consider the struggle a good thing. It’s refreshing to hear someone say, “Yeah, running’s good, but there are lots of other good things I can do to keep myself healthy.” By the way, you’ve inspired me to jack up my own desk and stand for a change. I’ve been meaning to do this forever! Thank you.
Good for you for listening to your body! It is hard giving up something you love.
I’m just curious if you have ever tried the barre method? I take a local class in Bellevue, WA called barre3 and I love it. A lot of women find it a great compliment to yoga. I prefer it to weight lifting and have seen some great results. Just thought I would throw it out there. Thank you for your positive, informative and inspiring posts!
Thank you, Heather! Great to meet you:) Yes, I am very familiar with the Barre Method. I have never taken it, though. But you have me intrigued. Definitely going to see if my gym has it. Thanks again!
Clover –
THIS was the “breath of fresh air” I needed. You are an inspiring runner that I look up to. I mostly appreciated you saying, “…you can always revisit them when your lifestyle and body are ready.” That hit home for me. “NOW” is not “FOREVER.” And I like that about your attitude! And absolutely – jack that desk up. It’s worked miracles for me:)
Sarah!! I’m so excited for you as you listen, become more aware and make changes that support your new awareness. It isn’t easy, but wishing for an easier life isn’t what we want anyway. We just want more capacity for understanding so we can embrace the new life before us. I always look at these as opportunities – my dear, I believe you have a huge opportunity to learn and embrace something wonderful about yourself. The space that was previously filled with running, has now opened up to you and you can explore!! How fun is that!!! Imagine, for a moment, that as you explore new things, new ways to spend that time, imagine falling in love with a new passion. Incredible, right!?!? Shift your view – this isn’t a bad thing… it’s an opportunity to explore and go down a new path. New paths are often golden! Enjoy!
Amazing, Jen! ” It isn’t easy, but wishing for an easier life isn’t what we want anyway. We just want more capacity for understanding so we can embrace the new life before us.” Thank you!
My pleasure…thank YOU for sharing. You give a space for continued learning and growth for many people. What a blessing! I’m thrilled to be part of it. Cheers! xoxo