Training When Injured/Tight/Exhausted?

Training when injured can be a very bad thing.  When I say injured I don't necessarily mean a serious injury.  What if your just very tight, tired or are just plain burnt out?  When is it okay to take time off from training?

When you are training, you can forget that running a lot doesn't necessarily translate into a good thing.  There is a lot to be said for taking a day or two or three off to rest up and recharge.  Try cross training on some of your off days.  For example you could do some biking, swimming or weight training on the days where you are feeling extra tight, sore, or just plain need a day off from running.   

Swimming is a great alternative when you are looking to cross train and give your legs a break.  For one thing, it is a non-weight bearing exercise and two, you can get a great workout and may even work up a sweat.  Or, you could try a spin class, you will still get a great workout in, while giving your legs a little break (except for those standing hills) believe me, I speak from experience.

There is great wisdom in resting when your body is tired.  Athletes don't train every single day, they know that it is wise to listen to their bodies and to take time off when necessary.  Sometimes we get so caught up in keeping the "running/training log" looking good that we forget it's not always about quantity, it's also about quality. 

Running more will just wear your body out and maybe even your spirit.  When I run too much, I lose my "love" of running and it becomes more of a chore than a joyful experience.  I have to remind myself why I started to run in the first place, and then take the needed steps to get back to that mindset.

If your training has become a chore...stop, and try to remember why you run.  Is it your "You" time?  Is it for your health?  Whatever your reason, take a break and try something else on your off day, you just might find a new addiction companion to your training resume'.

Godspeed...this comes from the Middle English expression "God spede (you)", a wish for success and fortune for one setting out on an enterprise, voyage, adventure, or travels. It may also mean good luck. 

"Limitations only exist if you let them"

 © 2012 Shannon M. King. This publication is the exclusive property of Shannon M. King and is protected under the US Copyright Act of 1976 and all other applicable international, federal, state and local laws. The contents of this post/story may not be reproduced as a whole or in part, by any means whatsoever, without consent of the author, Shannon M. King. All rights reserved.