Tag Archives: run strong

Running

Returning to Running After An Injury

Over the past month, I was unable to run due to a quad and tendon injury in my left leg.  In January, I had started training for the NJ Marathon which will be held on 4/30/17, in an effort to try to qualify for Boston. I started speed workouts, tempo runs, etc… I hoped to get faster and PR on race day. Unfortunately, the Universe had other plans for me.  I am not sure how I got hurt or why. I was following a plan, running smart, doing warm ups, cool downs, stretching, eating well, but yet I still got injured. When I first got hurt, I tried running through the pain, but that only made it worse. I was forced to stop running. Out the window went my marathon and any hope of a BQ.

At first, I was devastated. I didn’t want to accept it, didn’t want to rest, and went to three doctors in an effort to find someone who would tell me what I wanted to hear… no such luck. My only option was to rest and give my leg some needed time to repair itself.  This was a wakeup call/reality check reminding me to slow down and not push so hard. I had to listen, whether I liked it or not. I needed to accept the fact that I needed to rest, because the more I tried to push through, the longer it would take my leg to heal. I immediately started various therapies to help get me back to running: stretching, foam rolling, massage, acupuncture, stim, ultrasound therapy, and rest.

During the time, I kept asking myself, what was I going to do if I didn’t run? The answer, swim and some strength training (obviously, I couldn’t use my legs so no squatting, jumping, etc…). I focused on core work and upper body. This made me feel good and somewhat productive, despite not not being able to run much.

After a month, I started to notice a difference. I had more mobility in my leg, I could walk without limping, didn’t have to use the railing going up and down the stairs, and with doctors approval I started to run a few miles. I was super excited, but I needed to still remind myself to take it easy and not push too hard because I certainly didn’t want to hurt myself again. Coming back from a running injury stinks. But, it stinks a lot less than the time spent actually dealing with the injury.

The last thing you want during a comeback is to re-injure yourself, or to get a new injury, so keep the following in mind as you return to running.

TIPS TO COME BACK AFTER AN INJURY:

BE GRATEFUL:

The first and perhaps most important thing to keep in mind when getting back to running after a long hiatus is to be grateful for every mile. Every mile is a gift. It’s more about being out on the road than anything else, the rest will come!

BUILD SLOW:

When you get the green light to begin running, do not jump full-force back into where you left off. It is important NOT to rush things, as patience pays off in the end. Gradually increase the amount of time you spend running and supplement the rest with cross-training.

TAKE BABY STEPS:

If you start to notice some injury symptoms creep up, reassess right away. It may mean you have to take a few steps back and not increase your running that week. This is not a sign of defeat; if you catch it early, you’ll avoid anything more serious. Coming back can take time, be patient.

DON’T EXPECT TO PICK UP WHERE YOU LEFT OFF:

You may have been able to run a sub 8 min. mile, but when you come back from an injury,  it’s not likely you’ll be at your previous fitness level. Don’t be discouraged if you’re running a minute or more slower. The speed/fitness will come back! You’ll need to drop pace and mileage, so try not to get hung up on what once was.

POSITIVITY & PERSPECTIVE:

The biggest deciding factor in how well you can come back from an injury is your perspective. Look forward to the runs and more miles as they come and don’t forget that each mile is NOT a given. Be grateful for them and, as you are able to run more and are back to full training mode, remind yourself not to take them for granted. This will help you remain patient and keep your eyes focused on your long term goals.

Enjoy the act of feeling like you’re a runner again, it’s one heck of a high. So smile and have faith that muscle memory will eventually kick back in!

WE ARE ALL DIFFERENT:

Don’t expect your body to return in same time frame as someone else with the same injury. Just because your friend was running after a certain time period, doesn’t mean you will. Reassess the goals you had before your injury and take it one day at a time.

KEEP CROSSTRAINING AND DOING YOUR THERAPY:

I.e. swimming, lifting, rehab (especially the rehab exercises)- Keep doing it! This is all stuff that’ll make you a better runner, plus you’ve started a new routine, stick to it!

DON’T REPEAT THE SAME MISTAKES:

Assess your training. What were you doing before the injury that could have lead to you becoming injured? Did you over train? Run too many races? Not enough rest?  Not stretching enough? No warmup/cooldown? Whatever the case may be, think about it, analyze it, and make a plan to not have history repeat itself.

Happy Running!
Facebookredditpinterestmail
Running

Training for a Flat Marathon

When preparing for a flat marathon (like the NJ marathon), you may need to modify your training plan a little to better prepare for the unique demands of racing on a long, flat course. When most runners hear the word “flat” used to describe a marathon, we think “oh, that’ll be easy”. However, that may not be the case. Flat does not mean easy, especially if you’re not accustomed to training on flat terrain. Running on terrain you aren’t used to, can lead to muscle fatigue and cramping due to your body’s lack of muscle memory for the repetitive impact load on your muscles. Plus, it can be hard for the mind because of the monotony of the course. So one of the best ways to prepare for a flat marathon course is to shift more of your training to flat surfaces.

Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a flat race:

Hit the Track- There is no better place to run your speed and tempo workouts for a flat course than on a flat track. You can include shorter, 400m or 800m repeats or longer, 1-2 mile repeats to your training.

Hit the Treadmill- This certainly is not the most fun option, but it can be a good resource, especially if you can’t get to the track (i.e. it’s raining, snowing, too hot, etc…)  Treadmills are especially convenient for runners who travel and need to get their runs in.

Vary Your Long Runs- Try to find routes that offer flat stretches of road or path. The best way to prepare your body for a long, flat course is to simulate it with a long, flat training run. Once you have a flat course you like, you can begin to alternate it with your usual rolling hill routes.

Happy Running!

Facebookredditpinterestmail
Running

Be Ready on Race Day!

The Novo Nordisk New Jersey Marathon/ Half Marathon is only 4 weeks away!!! With race day on the horizon, here are a few training tips and things you need to know in order to ensure you’re ready on race day!!

Four weeks out:

  • This is when we start to second guess ourselves. We ask ourselves “Have I trained enough?” “Should I squeeze in one more long run?” -These are some common worries we all have, but from what I learned, less is more. It’s not the time to do anything crazy. It’s the time to let the body start to recover and build its strength up for race day.
  • The training you do today takes 2-3 weeks to have a real long-term effect on your fitness. So keep everything the same for the next two weeks. Then once you’re two weeks out, you reach a point of diminishing returns if you are not careful. Run smart, follow and trust your training.
  • Focus on maintaining your fitness and not injuring yourself so that you can feel good  on race day.
  • Your longest run should take place either 3 or 4 weeks out from the race. After that, start to taper.
  • Two weeks before, begin to reduce your weekly miles.
  • One week before, make your runs EASY.

One week away:

  • The final week is a crucial time. All those tough weeks of training need to count, so look after yourself and your body.
  • Tapering is all about balance. You don’t want to run too hard where you’ve exhausted yourself, but you don’t want to completely rest either or or may feel sluggish on race day. Your body loves routine so stick with yours. However, instead of going hard, try for more easy and relaxed runs with friends.
  • Surround yourself with positive, supportive people who are going to make you feel good and excited about the race!
  • Be sure to get lots of sleep. Protect the immune system and take care of yourself.
  • Avoid heavy strength and conditioning or gym workouts this week. More time does not mean starting a new lifting routine. Wait until after the race.
  • Stay hydrated!

Nutrition:

  • Don’t ruin your hard work. Remember, you can’t out run poor nutrition. So just eat normally and gradually reduce the volume and intensity of your training,  this is a natural carb load.
  • Your body needs the quality calories to keep your glycogen (carbohydrate stores) topped off so you feel great in training and on race day.
  • Be sure you’re choosing to eat healthy snacks and well balanced meals.
  • Eat your normal pre-race or pre- long run breakfast. Don’t suddenly change your diet. This is not the time to experiment with something new. You don’t want to feel sluggish or sick.

The final 24 hours

  • Go for that 2-3 mile jog to loosen the legs and calm the nerves. Try to release any anxiety you may have.
  • Look at the weather and be sure to wear clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable. Do not wear new clothes that you have not run/trained in. Go for comfy pre-washed clothes you know will help you feel good.
  • Pack your bag with all that you will need on race day – safety pins for your race number, warm clothes for before and after, toilet paper, chapstick, glide, snacks, fluids, you’re running watch, and iPod.
  • Avoid spending lots of time on your feet walking with family or friends and sightseeing the day before. Put your feet up and rest. (I’ve made this mistake before and paid for it dearly during the race.)
  • Snack on small meals throughout the day and stay well hydrated. I can’t say that enough… hydration is critical!
  • Eat your last main meal between 6-7pm. Look for easily digested carbs.  Don’t go to bed stuffed.
  • Get to bed early. Try your best to rest and relax!

Race day

  • YAY!! It’s finally here. Now is the time to be excited. Trust your training and know that everything will be ok!!
  • Try to stay relaxed and calm.
  • Eat the race day breakfast you have practiced in training approximately 1.5 – 2 hours before the race start.
  • Make sure you have your bib, GU/gels/blocks, your bag for after, etc… all the essentials you need before you leave the house.
  • Know your pace and split times, don’t rely solely on your GPS. The arm bands they hand out at the expo are really helpful.
  • Some people like to jog or warm up before the race, while others use the first 1-2 miles as their warmup. Do what feels right for you.
  • Hand in your post race bag and head to the corral about 20-30 minutes before the start. Keep your warm clothes on before you go. When you get the go, enjoy the your 26.2 journey. You’ve trained, you’re ready, now is the reward for all your hard work. Enjoy it!!

Race strategy

  • Don’t start too fast, ease into your pace.
  • Run at the pace you have practiced. After building into your target marathon pace, pay attention to your splits to help ensure you’re on track.
  • Try not to bank too much time in the beginning. This can hurt you at the end and make you unable to maintain pace. If you’re feeling good after the first half of the race, then pick it up.
  • Slow down at water stops and sip your sports drinks and/or water.
  • Remember to smile, take time to relax and draw in the atmosphere! These memories are sure to last a lifetime. Enjoy every step!

Wishing everyone an awesome race! Enjoy your time and the shore. Take in the sights, breathe in the ocean air, and smile at all the spectators there to cheer you on along the way! Have fun, run happy & strong!

Facebookredditpinterestmail
Running

Hill Yeah!

Uhhhh hills … if you’re like me, you avoid them whenever possible (at least I use to), you hate when your running group suggests a route with the monster hill you hate (I know we all have at least 1); you dread them when you look at the elevation charts of races, they are the bane of your existence.  While we tend to spend so much time hating them, it’s important to remember that hills will make us a faster, stronger, and healthier runner. So rather than hate the hills, let’s embrace the hills. Continue reading Hill Yeah! →

Facebookredditpinterestmail
Running

Thoughts You Have During & After a Marathon

A friend of mine recently posted a funny article they found in Runner’s World about the crazy things runners think about after running a marathon. This made me think of some things that have gone through my head both during and after a race; so I decided to create my own list 😉

Running a marathon is an incredible feeling and an awesome sense of accomplishment, but while you’re running it, you don’t always recognize in that moment how truly amazing it is and how strong you are because you’re battling some crazy thoughts that are going on in your head.

According to Running USA, the average male’s finishing time is 4:19:27 (9:54/mile pace), and the women’s was 4:44:19 (10:51/mile pace). That is a long time to be in your own head. As you run, you’ll notice many thoughts that pop up, some good and some not so good.  For this week’s blog, I’ve decided to share some of my own. This is by no means meant to discourage you from running a marathon (because I think everyone should run at least one in their lifetime), it’s more of an insight into what runners, myself in particular, think about during a race. The most recent marathon I ran was the NYC marathon in November. Here are a few of the things that I thought about. I started by breaking it down according to my miles of the race and then how I felt after. Enjoy!

Here’s what goes down during and after a marathon: 

  • At the beginning of the race you’re so excited. You’ve been training for several months  and now the day is finally here. You’re overjoyed and ready to run.
  • Miles 1-3: What’s my pace? Am I going too fast? Should I slow down? Remember the warnings… don’t go out fast, stay back, you’ll pay for it at the end.
  • Mile 3-6: Ok, I am getting into a groove. Love this Eminem song, I am crushing this. I feel like I am on top of the world, only 20 miles to go.
  • Miles 6-9: Make sure you’re fueling, look a water station, drink up, are we at the ½ yet?
  • Miles 9-12: Still not halfway, ok I am on pace, trying to be under the 4:00 mark. Only one more mile to the half, keep your chest up, shoulders down, and remember to breathe.
  • Miles 12-15: Finally, the first half is done, you’ve got this, try to speed up for the second half, skip to the next song, yay Beyonce, smile- there’s a photographer, pretend this is fun.
  • Miles 15-18: I think my foot hurts, I’m thirsty, is that a banana?  Where’s my husband? Wait I think I see him. Can I lift my hand high enough to give him a high-five?
  • Miles 18-21: Why did I sign up for this? Why do I think running is fun? Shit, I slowed down, can I still hit my goal? Why aren’t my legs moving? MOVE legs- whats wrong with you? Shit a hill!  What’s that smell? Is that me or the person next to me? I’ve run 20 miles, only 6 more… stop doing math.
  • Mile 21-23: Ok, not too much longer. Is this what hitting the wall feels like? When will this be over? I can’t believe I paid for this. When is the next water stop? Hold your pace, that person’s walking and it looks so good, should I walk? If I get through this alive, I am never running another marathon.
  • Mile 23-26.2: You are almost there, pull yourself together, you can do this-you can do anything, one foot in front of the other, is that the finish line ahead, pass the women in the orange shorts, let’s go, last little push, let’s get to that line, smile when you cross.
  • Yes, I did it!! Glad that’s done! That was great, I think! Where’s my damn medal?
  • Should I sit, nah keep walking to the family meeting area. Wow my feet hurt, I am not sure they ever hurt so bad, oh no a curb how am I going to step down, find your family, find food, find a drink, find a shower.
  • Find a shower, stand there for 20 minutes then ask your husband to help dry you off and get you dressed.
  • Eat everything in site.
  • Allow your head to hit the pillow, Good night!

Facebookredditpinterestmail

Running

26 Reasons why you should run the NJ Marathon

2016-header-nj_marathon_homepageRunning a marathon is one of the most challenging and rewarding events that any of us will ever experience.  The human body imposes natural limitations on the distance we can run easily.  Twenty miles is about the furthest we can go comfortably.  After 20 miles, we begin to run out of fuel and our muscles begin to hurt.  Therefore, the marathon distance is designed to take us beyond our comfort zone, to a place in which we confront the limitations of our bodies and our minds.  I could not think of a better place to be, to learn, and to grow.

I firmly believe that anyone with the right training, preparation, and mental discipline can complete a marathon. However, you need to know that there are no shortcuts or easy ways out.  Marathon training can be tough, but you need to remember, so are you! After you’ve run your first one, there is no better feeling in the world.  Knowing your hard work has paid off and what you’ve accomplished as a result of finishing is something that no one can take away from you.  

2013njmcoursemapIt is so worth it in the end. If you’re someone who’s debated about doing one for a while, now’s your chance (no time like the present). Join me in signing up for the NJ marathon and get yourself ready for a challenge that will take you into an unknown zone, where you can confront your true self and discover your inner strengths and limits. But, be careful, running a marathon can become an addiction. After it’s done, you can’t wait to sign up for the next one.

This marathon will mark my 10th and I could not be more excited nor could I think of a better place to run!

26 Reasons why you should run the NJ Marathon:

  1. Its close to home! The point-to-point marathon course starts in Oceanport at Monmouth Park and ends on the oceanfront Promenade just north of Pier Village and opposite the stage on The Great Lawn. And if it’s not close to your home, it’s definitely an awesome place to visit and great excuse to head to the Jersey Shore.
  2. The course is virtually flat. It has a few gentle rolling stretches and bridge crossings, but overall, it’s fast and flat.
  3. Flat and fast = many participants will obtain new PRs!
  4. Great Boston Qualifying course!
  5. You get to run through the diverse neighborhoods and business districts of Oceanport, Monmouth Beach, Long Branch, Deal, Allenhurst, Loch Arbour, Asbury Park and Ocean Grove.
  6. You can achieve a life-long goal. Many people have “run a marathon” on their bucket list, but few actually follow through with it.
  7. Training for a marathon helps keep you motivated to run!  You can’t get away with not training with a marathon, so having training runs marked on your calendar will keep you motivated and force you to stick to your schedule.
  8. Running keeps you healthy and strong!  Running regularly strengthens your heart and also helps keep your blood pressure and cholesterol at normal levels. It also improves your immune system.
  9. Get into better shape! By the time you’re done training you may possibly be in the best shape of your life.
  10. You’ll get a medal, cool shirt, and an awesome finishing photo as a recognition of your achievement.
  11. You’ll meet new people. Joining a running group is a great way to make new friends. The friends you meet and the bonds you form are like none other.
  12. You’ll sleep better.  Marathon training can be tiring on your body, so you’ll definitely find yourself getting to bed earlier and sleeping a lot more soundly.
  13. You’ll have a lifetime of bragging rights. Once you become a marathon finisher, you’re always a marathon finisher. No one can ever take that away from you!
  14. You’ll have a great excuse to buy new running clothes. You’ll be running a lot, so you need quite a few outfits.  Picking up some new running clothes and gear is a great way to reward yourself for sticking to your training.
  15. You’ll be a great role model and be setting a great example for your friends and family.  It’s hard not to respect someone who is dedicated and determined to complete a large goal like running a marathon.
  16. People will make signs for you.  A marathon is definitely a sign-worthy endeavor and friends and family always love to come up with creative signs to show their support.  It’s so fun to read the signs along the course on race day!
  17. Running is a good stress reliever. Running helps take your mind off your troubles and get lost in the run.  
  18. Running can be euphoric. You’ll get to experience the runner’s high that everyone talks about.  
  19. You’ll gain confidence you never knew you had. After you’ve logged a 20-miler, you’ll feel like you can conquer the world.
  20. You’ll find new places to run. Since you’ll be running a lot more, you may get bored with the same routes. Check out MapMyRun.com to create new routes. You can also find runners in your area on FB or visit your local running store (i.e. Pacers) to ask for suggestions on where to run.
  21. You will most definitely be inspired along the way.  Whether it’s the double-amputee wheelchair racer, the 75-year-old grandmother running, the person completing their 50th or 100th marathon, people running in honor of loved ones who’ve passed, the charity runners, or the kids holding the signs that say  “We Love You, Mom/Dad!”, there are inspirations everywhere.
  22. You can indulge a little after your long runs.  During your very long runs, you’ll be burning thousands of calories, so it’s OK to be a little indulgent after. You can run hard, and celebrate hard.
  23. You’ll better understand runners’ lingo and find yourself talking more about running.
  24. You have an excuse to get a massage.  While training, you may find that you have tight muscles, so regular massages can help you feel comfortable and stay injury-free. Treat yourself to a massage or two during your training to help relieve some of that tightness.
  25. You’ll have an amazing feeling of accomplishment.  Although you’ll experience rough patches during marathon training and during the race, it’s all worth it once you cross that finish line. You’ll feel proud knowing that you set a goal of finishing a marathon and you followed through with it.
  26. The experience will change you. You’ll forever know that you have the mental and physical strength to persevere, even during times when you think you can’t and won’t succeed.

Let’s get ready to run!!

Facebookredditpinterestmail
Yoga

Summer Running Tips

1 Comment

logo-2016-header-enAs I slowly adjust to the new climate, I began thinking about what warmer temperatures mean and the extra preparation I need for summer running and marathon training.  Since I will be running the Berlin Marathon on September 25, 2016, I need to start training now. I won’t let the heat stop me, but I want to make sure I’m prepared and ready before I head out the door.   Continue reading Summer Running Tips →

Facebookredditpinterestmail
Running

Stop! Taper Time!

TaperAs I prepare for the London Marathon next week (4/24/15), I have begun the tapering process.  I kinda have a love/hate relationship with tapering. I know it’s important but being someone who works out several hours a day and runs up to 64 miles a week, the taper can be tough.  I am use to moving a lot, so when I actually have to take a pause, cut back, or stop… it can be hard.  

Continue reading Stop! Taper Time! →

Facebookredditpinterestmail