The Return of the Runner

(like The Return of the Jedi but with less Ewoks...ahem, anyway...)

If you follow me on Instagram or Twitter then you may have seen some photos over the last week of me getting back out there with my running shoes on!

After struggling with a groin strain/tear over the last month or so, I've been on a running ban- completing physio exercises and Yoga classes instead.

However, I was given the all clear to start reintroducing running again about a week ago and I couldn't have been happier to lace up my shoes (the new Brooks Ravenna 5s if you're wondering!) and enjoy the sunshine 🙂

I started with just 5mins of running within a longer walk, then increased that to 10minutes, then 20...
I was told if at any point I started to feel pain again to back off, and go back to the distance I could do pain-free, but fortunately there were no problems!

Even a rainy run couldn't dampen my spirits!

And I'm so excited to say that I'm now up to running for 30mins at a time with no pain! My hip still feels a little achey afterwards, and I'm making sure to stay on top of my physio exercises and stretching, but it all seems to be progressing nicely.

The weather has been gorgeous and I've felt so happy and positive about being able to run at all, even if the distances are small compared to what I could do before.

I saw my Physio last night who said to keep with 30minute runs until the soreness post-run has abated a bit, and then I can continue increasing the duration slowly. He said that the after run achiness was due to re-inflammation of the minor tears that are healing, and ice baths are my friend! When the weather is so hot and sticky that actually doesn't sound like such a bad idea! And if it helps me to get back to fighting fit quicker, a bit of discomfort is worth it...

Will I make Ealing Half? I'm not sure at this stage. The race is on 28th September, which gives me about 10 weeks to train. Doable, providing I continue to recover strongly and I'm going to try, because I would love to run with my friend Ali- but of course, I'm going to be sensible. I don't want to push myself stupidly, and cause more problems. There will be other races!

10 weeks to a Half Marathon? Have you enjoyed exercising in the sunshine these past few weeks? It always brings a smile to my face 🙂

Beki x