​SUMMER CHALLENGES 2017: MY REPORT

REST AND RECOVERY IS MY NEW CHALLENGE This is a tough blog to write.  Some end-of-the-day right calf discomfort started just after the 4th of July holiday.  I had been going up and down 3 flights of stairs repeatedly for days, in an effort to clean and redecorate a bit at home in advance of visitors’ arrival for the holiday. Then there was a marathon day driving an SUV to and from family across the state to deliver our old furniture to a nephew with a new apartment. After that trip, the evening calf twinge developed into an ache. 

Because the discomfort was not brought on by running, I did not recognize it as significant and pretty much tried to ignore it.  However, running aggravated the ache and eventually my gait changed. It was time to stop and heal for an extended period.

On July 11, I recorded my last streak run of SUMMER CHALLENGE: I.  The duration of the 2017 and 2106 streaks were each 112 DAYS. According to my calculations, a streak extending May 29 to September 4 would equal 99 DAYS.  Technically, my goal was met, if not emotionally. YAY!

I followed the advice regularly given by trainers that I know to be true, to rest a few days when a problem starts.  If not resolved, more time is needed.  So, I ended SUMMER CHALLENGE I: STREAK RUNNING and converted CHALLENGE II: RUN-WALK ACROSS AMERICA to walking the least number of miles (100:1 mile scale) needed for each segment. I will re-schedule CHALLENGE III: FASTEST 5K for late fall. 

I’m a bit disappointed (who wouldn’t be), but actually proud that I have the sense to do what is good for my future running ability.  Pain relievers and braces/wraps/compression wear can’t fix the imbalance or weakness that underlies the issue, so I boosted strength work and cross training sessions.  Most efforts have concentrated on the upper body to spare the lower legs (calf).  My arms/shoulders/back area is looking terrific, and this is an unanticipated made-for-summer side benefit.

Likely there are a few more weeks of rest remaining for me,  then slow advancing of leg workouts to follow.  Hopefully the next report will be of a return to easy running.  If not, patience is best policy.  Fall running is my absolute favorite. With the strength/cross-training I’ll be in good position to enjoy short sessions of higher intensity walking or light jogging.

How about you?  Has anyone else taken themselves out of challenges and into the rest and recovery mode? Share your stories to help the rest of us.

RUN (OR REST AND RECOVER) HAPPY!