Why this week? I wonder when the temperature was as low as 68 degrees during my morning runs, why did my legs not really want to move and why did everything hurt? My hips, my knees, low back, feet even!!
When this happens we all know as runners or athletes you have 2 choices:
One, sit, be crabby, rest, get over it, move on!
Two, PANIC...analyze every little thing and wonder what caused this and is it a downward spiral?
Well anyone who knows me, knows I was a number 2! So what I came up with is a good way to review your own training and reevaluate.
Last Saturday I ran a 14 mile long run. The longest run, for me, all summer. I felt great!
So that shouldn't be the cause, but maybe its a piece of the puzzle.
Sunday, I followed that long run with a leisurely bike ride...hahaha..that bike ride turned into a 22 mile exploration of a new trail. My legs were screaming by the end of it. OK another piece.
Monday, I went back to my regular regimen...ignoring that long bike ride (BTW..the longest one in 2 years!) ran 5 miles on a super HOT humid trail. OK, OK..maybe a rest day was in order here..now I am seeing it.
We are in the heat of summer and I realize I have not been bringing my water bottle to work. Meaning that during one of the hottest weeks of the year, I maybe drank 8-16 ounces of water ALL DAY. I am totally dehydrated!!
On Thursday during a normal 6 mile run, my knees were aching. Why? My knees almost never hurt! When I got home I really looked at my shoes...I have been saying for weeks I need new ones, but ouch my whole midsole and heel are breaking down. I don't think those shoes (Brooks Ghost, which I am totally in love with, BTW!) had a bit of cushioning left!
So in addition to over training a bit, it also was one of the hottest weeks of the summer, I was totally dehydrated and I desperately needed new shoes. So I am fixing what I can...and yes I am RESTING. Taking today off and cutting back my long weekend run. I am practicing what I preach, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!!!
Next time I will rest and relax and not over analyze...to be honest...its driving me crazy!
