One month ago I was running 26 miles. This week I'm topping out at 6. And even then I'm going slower than molasses.
But that is the point. After an injury, it's tempting to try and make up lost time. I know that's what I'm itching to do. I've just had 3 weeks of low impact exercising which means that I have burned about a 1/4 of the calories per week than I normally do. My weight loss is slow and I can see my calves turning to jello.
But if I tried to pick up where I left off, I would injure the healing muscles and be out for even longer. So when coming back from an injury, take your time. Literally. Make each mile a minute or two slower than pre injury. If you were at 60 minute sessions on the elliptical, try 30 minutes with stretching before and after.
Most importantly, listen to your body. If you feel sharp pain... STOP. Right then. Not after you're done with your workout. Sore is ok. Pain is not.
Injuries happen to athletes at every level. Stretching and slow increases in intensity will not only help your recovery, but help prevent injuries in the first place.
Great post with some great advice. I think the biggest risk people face when returning to work from an injury is working themselves too hard or not realizing that they may not be fully healed even if the pain has significantly lessened. Great stuff, keep it up.
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