I’m sure you know where I’m going with this.
I went for a run this morning and it wasn’t quite the glorious return to running I had been envisioning for the last ten days. Bummer.
I took it slow and I didn’t plan to go far, but apparently it was still too much. 1.83 miles and I walked it home because my a** was killing me.
It’s taken me almost all day, but I’m starting to see the positives in what seemed like a really negative situation. So, here’s my sunshine on a cloudy day:
- I am 100% confident that my self-diagnosis is correct. My knee didn’t hurt at all this morning. The pain started deep in my glutes and radiated down my hamstring, almost like a cramp. That, my friends, is tight muscles. It could be a million times worse and I’m very grateful for how minor of an injury this is.
- Tight muscles have a solution. I’m continuing with the Trigger Point massaging and stretching.
- As soon as I stopped running, the pain went away. Actually, the reason I thought I could run this morning is because I’ve been feeling great. I haven’t had any pain or tightness during everyday activities.
- I’m going to be better soon. This setback is temporary and there’s a good lesson to be learned about patience and taking care of myself, blah blah blah.
- I am actually looking forward to swimming. Can you believe it?? Me, daydreaming about the pool? I guess truth is stranger than fiction.
Like the title implies, this is just one step back. I still took those two steps forward and I’m definitely feeling better than I was a week ago. My plan of action from here is to take a few more days off, stretch and roll, then try again this weekend. I think the biggest thing I’m trying to do for myself is not feel anxious to get back to running too soon. Training for the World’s Toughest Half starts Monday, but – worst case scenario – I’ll skimp on the run training and just keep belting it out in the pool. Oh, wait, I think that might actually be the BEST case scenario! 
I’m sorry about the run, but it sounds like you were able to figure some things out because of it! Tight muscles are definitely fixable!
You have a great attitude! Hang in there and you will be fine!
I am so proud of you for the way you’re adapting. What could be cooler than belting it out in the pool? You rock!
If you find a fix for tight muscles please let me know. I’m fighting a tight pyriformis and not seeing much improvement. Luckily it’s not stopping me running, but I know the running’s not really helping.
Stretch and roll. Welcome to my world. You just can’t do it enough.
tight muscles definitely fixable
I had this EXACT same thing to the extreme in May
OH MAN!!! I’m so bummed out for you! But, wow, you are so positive. I need to follow your example in the attitude department.
If tight muscles are your issue you should TOTALLY try Bikram yoga. Seriously. The heat makes all the difference. And it’s actually a pretty good cardio workout too. (My apologies if you’ve already tried it and know this stuff already.)
Sorry to hear but I’m so impressed with your positive attitude. That goes a long way. Wow.
Sorry to hear about your bum bum – but I have to tell me, the title of your post got me singing Opposites Attract. Not often that Paula Abdul circa 1990 makes it onto the playlist!
Sorry to hear you are hurt 🙁
Get some GREAT MASSAGE. It’s the perfect excuse!
Foam roll and put the hubby to work. After all- the area that is affected will probably have his interest =D
I was sure there would be Paula Abdul lyrics in this post. Tennis ball makes for a great deep tushy massage
don’t worry, the pain is temporary. hope u’ll be well soon, and run safe yeah !!! 🙂
Glad the injury is temporary. Listen to ERG – a nice massage 🙂
I like the new header 🙂
Way to adapt and overcome! Love the new header!
Wow, that is a great attitude. Cheers to you! I am sending you positive healing vibes to help you along!
stay positive my friend! sending you good vibes for a speedy recovery!
Wish I had some answers… just wanted to send you a big hug!