Despite my best efforts at denial, powering through, and finally scaling back a bit – it happened. I’ve been sidelined. I’m pretty sure there is nothing that a runner hates more than knowing she needs to take some time off. Except for maybe not knowing how long this is going to take. But, here are a few more things that are really making me crazy!
1) Everyone’s a doctor. When you have an injury or something that requires some time off of running, all of your running friends suddenly become medically qualified to give you their expert advice. Guess what? I have Google and WebMD too! I am no longer accepting your amazing words of wisdom. Can we talk about something else?
2) Race companies have no mercy. I’m trying my best to avoid looking up races and I’m doing a great job at telling people I can’t do any races right now. (Sob!) But, all those race companies keep sending me emails about all of their awesome races. They also keep posting pictures of happy runners at races I missed and killer deals on upcoming races on Facebook. (Sigh!) You’re killin’ me, man!
3) I feel so out of shape. I’m working out regularly. I’ve taken up riding my bike on a regular basis to get my outdoor exercise fix. It’s just not the same. My cardiovascular fitness is lacking. Regardless of my strength, the fact that I’m out of breath so quickly is freaking me out! Those first few runs when I get back at it are going to be rough on the lungs.
4) I don’t know how to eat as a non-runner. Apparently I’m not burning calories at the same rate that I did while running regularly. Go figure! Suddenly, I’m not sure how to eat anymore. I got used to what my body could handle as a runner. Now a few indulgences suddenly add up. What the heck? When did I have to worry about this? Let’s be honest. I’d rather just get back to running than have to figure out my eating as a non-runner. I guess I’d better pull it together. This running break may last for awhile still.
5) It’s my favorite running time of year. Summertime. The days are long, the sun is shining, and there are multiple races every weekend. Need I say more?
So here I sit, contemplating what I should do for my workout today. It was so much easier when running was in the mix. But, as long as I keep moving I can keep my sanity. Sidelined friends, I feel your pain, your anxiety, your itch to run! But for now, we play it smart and save running for when the body is ready. Despite what you do, keep moving! Your next run is out there . . . waiting for you when you’re healthy again.