How to return to running...

I've been injured. I twisted awkwardly whilst lifting a heavy box above my head at a funny angle, it's funny after running a marathon you kind of feel invincible, well clearly my back isn't and I've been on ibuprofen, ice and rest and endless cups of tea for the last 9 days. So yesterday after 2 whole days with out drugs I was desperate to get out and was starting to get cranky I decided I should test the water and go for a run.

The weather has changed, the light seems to have been dimmed and so I reluctantly decided it was a long trousers and high visibility top night. The problem with a short lay off from running is that all your kit is not readily at hand. I had to hunt for my luminous top and nearly called in a sniffer dog to find my garmin.  I wore my sketchers again (for previous readers of the blog this is only run 3/15).

I ran a short 2 miles, but I wanted to reassure myself that I could stillrun and that I wouldn't be in pain. I cannot explain how good it felt to run again after a short time off, I guess the fact I didn't really lose any fitness and that my legs have really benefited with the enforced rest contributed to a run in which I felt I was flying.

I ran again today in Brighton 5 miles in total, 2.5 miles up and 2.5 miles down. Stannmer Park was looking glorious in the low warm autumnal sun and I was rewarded with the usual stunning views across the Downs and into the trees.

So, it seems that my fears of not being a runner anymore were unfounded and now lie crumpled in the corner along with an empty ibuprofen box and a snickers wrapper. I know a few of my twitter friends have been injured or suffering from colds/bugs lately and my sympathies are with you, get well soon and get out there and train. xx