I’ve given that Achilles tendon three weeks to heal thyself, and it’s being mighty stubborn about cooperating. As far as running injuries go, this is one that always takes awhile. That particular tendon is a real workhorse, so it can be hard to give it much time off if you are required to walk, which I am. And as sturdy as it is, it’s blood-poor. That also impedes the healing process and makes all the icing and massaging less helpful than if you were nursing, say, an inflamed IT band or pulled hamstring. But I also know that if the Achilles tears, you’re done. Not just for awhile, but forever. Runners do not come back from that one.
I’ve been devoting considerable time the last couple of weeks to riding the stationary bikes at the gym. It’s starting to grow on me. Hanging out Friday night with cyclists at my friend Mark’s 50th birthday party, I momentarily wondered if I could make the switch and actually ride outside. Then I realized it was just the Gordon Biersch brew messing with me. No, I’ll stick with bike wheels that spin into space for now.
The next morning I signed up for the track club’s Whatever Half Marathon Program, where we meet Saturdays to train for whatever race we want. A lot of us are eyeing the Silver Strand Half Marathon, the kindest course at that distance in San Diego. Others are interested in Orange County, Vegas, Honolulu and Carlsbad. I managed about 3 miles during which a trio of us moms recalled our childbirths – a great way to put my current pain in perspective. The ankle protested from the first step, but it also never worsened to the point I felt compelled to stop. I guess that’s progress.
10 comments:
You should give riding outside a try! I was nervous about it at first and the uphills are a lot harder on a bike than they are running (MOB frequently passes me on foot while I'm struggling to on the bike), but the downhills are a blast and my legs are a lot stronger now.
Look after yourself and listen to ywhat your foort is telling you. I envy the camraderie of your group.
It was fun yesterday. I hope your Achilles doesn't give you any more complaints.
its so funny to read this because the strangest thing entered my mind during my run today "I wonder if mothers find it easier to run" lol. I've never given birth and i wonder if that contributes to my low tolerance of tough runs.
Anyway I'm glad you are eyeing a half! :)
riding an actual real bike kinda scares the crap out of me too. i just see myself falling down. hard. and scraping up every inch of my precious skin.
Hey, Riding outside is actually fun, most of the times. Definetly give it try to heal the other wounds.. It will keep your leg strength up..
Take care of that injury.. It never does go away fast enough.
I hope your Achillies tendon continues to get better! I'm with you on the stationary bike!
One of my bosses' is twisting my arm to run the Silver Strand Half Marathon, plus our marathon running buddy, and now you. Perhaps it is one to consider. After all, it is flat. :) Have a great week, Anne!
Good luck on ur Achilles issue and ur right do not want to tear that bad boy!!
I had a good friend his first year in the NFL and his first game during pre-season ...SNAPPED his Achilles and POOF end of his career, just that quick...now he is a cranky yet successful stock broker-lol
I wish you a speedy and safe recovery from the Achilles injury, that sounds rotten.
LOL re: reflecting on childbirth to put pain in perspective...I do the same thing!!! :-)
Speedy healing to you.
Baby steps, Anne. I hope the recovery keeps going well.
Silversun Pickups - it's a liquor store or mini-mart or something, right?
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