f inactivity, I decided I was feeling healthy enough to get back into training mode. My first run - a lazy Sunday 5k in Nackawic - went surprisingly well, considering I spent the first kilometer hacking and coughing the last bit of cold out of my system. Sure, I felt a little stiff from the extended layoff, but all systems were go once my legs started moving and my lungs cleared up. I was back in the running business, baby.Brimming with confidence, I scheduled my last long run for the next day. I made a date with the Irving Nature Park, and charged my trusty point and shoot in anticipation of some running photos. Inspired by Sacha Goldberger's project Before and After Shots of Joggers, I thought it would be interesting to take a picture of myself after each completed loop of the park. With five laps planned, I figured I would probably look quite exhausted by the time I finished, which would make for an interesting set of photos. Everyone likes looking at a trainwreck once in a while, don't they?
I arrived at the Nature Park early the next evening, looking a little worse for wear but feeling mentally ready for the task at hand. I took a quick self portrait to document the start of the run (top photo) and hit the trail. Running a little faster than expected, I cruised through the park, completing the loop in 33 minutes and change. With twenty perecnt of my run in the bag, I jogged to the car, hydrated, snapped my second picture (that handsome shot on the left), and continued on my merry way.
Unfortunately, I wasn't feeling very merry. I was struggling to maintain my pace (which was fine, as I probably ran the first lap a little fast), and was full of nagging doubts about my ability to finish five laps before dark. This feeling was compounded at kilometer ten by a hot spot on my right knee. It was a minor discomfort, but I wondered if it would become a problem later in the run. Mentally, I crossed my fingers, but physically, I wasn't so sure.
I finished the second loop in a little less than 35 minutes (right on target), and hit the car again, adding a quick stretch to my drink/photo routine. The sun was starting to fade in the sky, and a slight breeze chilled my sweaty body. Unfortunately, I forgot to bring any extra clothing, so I couldn't protect myself from the wind. Hoping non-stop activity would keep me warm, I started running again, shivering with cold and cursing my lack of layers.
At this point, my run totally fell apart. My knee discomfort quickly elevated to pain levels, and each hill made it worse. My pace slowed to a crawl, and I knew I wouldn't be able to finish five loops of the park in one piece. To make matter worse, I came to the decision in the middle of the park, which meant I had to finish the loop, pain or no pain. Focusing on form as best I could, I jogged, walked, and limped the last three kilometers, finishing the loop in 37 minutes and change. Considering my discomfort level, it wasn't bad, and I even remembered to take my last photo (see below) before leaving. Sweet.
What went wrong? I am not sure, but I think the lack of activity, coupled with the quick return to the long run, aggravated up my iliotibial band. I think a couple of days of rest, coupled with some ice and stretching might fix the problem, but I am seriously worried that it might affect my ability to race next Sunday. Hopefully I won't have to delay the marathon, but if I do, I'll let you all know, and soon.
Chuck is running the marathon in support of InterAction School of Performing Arts Capital Campaign. To find out how to donate, please click here.
