The Running Thread - 2016

[DopeyBadger]

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

I remind myself that the hard work I put in now will enable me to celebrate my achievements later. I've got lofty goals that are definitely on the outskirts of what I'm physically capable of. The only way I'm going to maximize my potential and reach those goals is continuous hard work. But therein lies the secret, I love running. For me it's never been a question of "if" I'm going to do it, only "when" I'm going to do it. I cherish everyday I get to run, because others can't. And this enjoyment could easily be taken away from me at any moment for a variety of reasons. If that happens, I want to be able to look back and know that I did everything I could to enjoy the time I got to run. I view each training day as not something I have to do, but that I want to do.

So whenever someone tells me that they're feeling burnout, my question to them is always "why?" If we know why you're feeling burnout, then it becomes easier to come up with a solution to get past this episode and to help ensure it doesn't happen again.

Not enough sleep?
Too much mileage?
Oppressive heat?
Not hitting the paces you want?
Not hitting the goals you've set?
Too many days per week?
Too much time spent training on a day?
Muscle soreness?
Feeling of have to and not want to?
Feeling stale?
Feeling bleh?
Iron deficiency?
Every run seems to have an increased perception of effort but without a significant change in weather?
Was the decision to begin training made completely because you wanted to and not because of some outside influence (a parent or spouse pressuring you into it, an external motivation to run such as weight loss, etc.)?
Are the runs become monotonous (same paces, same routes, little enjoyment)?
Are you hydrating and consuming nutrition well: before, during and after the run?

These are just some examples of questions you can ask yourself when you feel like you're suffering from burnout. In the grand scheme of a training plan, you can take a few days off with minimal effect to the overall effectiveness of the plan. Maybe stepping back and taking those days off would be enough to reinvigorate the fires.

 

[Waiting2goback]

A little extra quote for Keels today. This one doesn't fit "perfectly" because you weren't "rejected" but you get the point hopefully.

 

[Waiting2goback]

Todays QOTD was suggested by a fellow poster to follow up the last QOTD. Thanks for the suggestion and anyone with any ideas feel free to send me a PM with a idea.

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

ATTQOTD: I remind myself, that I have yet to go out for a run that I regret. That usually gets me out the door to take on the days task.

I don't know that I have ever been burnt out. Are there days when I don't feel like running, sure. Today for example. The only time I can run today is smack dab in the middle of the day and it will be mid 90's and humid, like FL humid. I don't care. It will be my last run for at least 3 months so I'm getting my water belt and I am going. I will be dripping sweat, my eyes will be burning from the sweat getting in them, but I will be loving it because you just never know when it will be taken away.

Generally when I don't feel like running its because I am tired or its too cold in the winter but I do it and I always feel good when I am done.

 

[ZellyB]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

I wish I'd started this journey earlier. There are so many places I want to see and races I want to run, and I don't think it's going to be possible for me to ever do them now.

Womp womp.

OK. Enough of my sad trombone act. I hope everyone else had a great weekend!

Man, I hate to read this, Keels. I hope that you can find some way to get through to Dopey 2018, but if not, I hope you can appreciate what great accomplishments you've achieved! You've always been such a fun and encouraging individual on the running threads and it just sucks that this is happening. Sending you many positive vibes and wishes that you can find a way to still get through the things you want to do.

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

Usually just the fact that I have a big race coming up. As much as I sometimes get burned out and hate training runs, I know I would hate even more having a horrible race because I didn't train like I should. Of course, I also having a running partner and group that helps to hold me accountable as well and that's a HUGE plus.

 

[BuckeyeBama]

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

When this happens to me it means that I am over-training and need a week of reduced mileage with only easy runs. That usually gets me back on track.

 

[The Expert]

Ran my first 10K this morning - man that was hard! Longest I'd gone in training was 5 miles, and as much as I tried to pace myself with walk intervals in the first half, I still struggled at the end. BUT I beat my (secret) goal time of 1:15 with a 1:14:48, which should give me a decent POT for GSC next February if my Half in October isn't great. So I'm happy!

 

[CheapRunnerMike]

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

I just think about how much that race is going to suck if I don't put in the work. And I mean suck in a "this really hurts" sorta way. Not worth it.

So sorry to hear your follow up didn't go well @Keels...we're all pulling for you and wishing you all the best. Make the most of these big races you have coming up...I'm excited to see what's in store for you though because I know you will be doing something amazing!

 

[CheapRunnerMike]

Raced the Bluewater Olympic Triathlon on Saturday and beat my 2:15 goal, finishing just under 2:07 despite the 100º heat index...good enough for second place overall!

If you want the long-winded recap it is in my training journal (with lots of pictures!)

 

[Barca33Runner]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

I wish I'd started this journey earlier. There are so many places I want to see and races I want to run, and I don't think it's going to be possible for me to ever do them now.

Womp womp.

OK. Enough of my sad trombone act. I hope everyone else had a great weekend!

It always makes me sad when I hear/read that someone isn't going to be able to continue to do something they love.

As others have said, you are an incredible inspiration and motivator to many on this board. I have no doubt that you will make the right decisions for your life moving forward and that if it does come to a point where running can't be part of a healthy lifestyle that you will find something equally fulfilling to take it's place.

Wishing you all the best.

 

[Mickey Momma]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

Oh this sucks! You have been such an inspiration on these boards. Now we will have to work to inspire you!

 

[jhorstma]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

I wish I'd started this journey earlier. There are so many places I want to see and races I want to run, and I don't think it's going to be possible for me to ever do them now.

Womp womp.

OK. Enough of my sad trombone act. I hope everyone else had a great weekend!

You're an inspiration to many many people, myself (a long-time lurker on this board) included. New hip, new (not-lopsided) body, new (non-running) challenges - it sounds like you'll continue to be an inspiration to many many people, here and likely in new places.

 

[rteetz]

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

I remind myself why I have to do it. I want to finish my race and not feel dead afterwards training and training well is the only way to do that.

@Keels that news sucks. I really wish the best for you and that you can get through 2018. I know you'll have plenty of support here and from friends.

 

[surfde22]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

I wish I'd started this journey earlier. There are so many places I want to see and races I want to run, and I don't think it's going to be possible for me to ever do them now.

Womp womp.

OK. Enough of my sad trombone act. I hope everyone else had a great weekend!

So sorry to hear this. You've definitely been a great motivator to all around here, and I know you insight will still be valuable even after your running career has come to an end. I wish you all the best in making your goal of Dopey 2018.

QOTD: When you start feeling burnout during a big training season, how do you get yourself out the door for training runs?

I remind myself what my goal is, beating my brother at Dopey, and that training is required. I have to remind myself that he has experience with this challenge, unlike me, so I must remind myself that training is my only hope now.

 

[Dis5150]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

I wish I'd started this journey earlier. There are so many places I want to see and races I want to run, and I don't think it's going to be possible for me to ever do them now.

Womp womp.

OK. Enough of my sad trombone act. I hope everyone else had a great weekend!

Keels, I am so sorry to read this news. You have been such an inspiration to me since I started running! And to so many other people on the running boards. My thought and prayers are with you and with your Dr.'s, that they find the absolute best treatments for you, to allow you to be able to compete thru Dopey 2018. You have accomplished so much in your running career! I just looked at your medal pics on Instagram this morning and they are awesome. You have the kind of spirit and personality that you will excel wherever your path takes you next.

 

[roxymama]

Congrats to tall the racers this weekend. Especially those tackling new distances (great job @The Expert). And continued to be impressed by @CheapRunnerMike getting onto another podium! Looking forward to reading everyone's recaps.

@Miranda I swear I have a race exactly like you described each summer. I'd like to petition that all June and July 5ks be downgraded to 3ks. Sounds good right?

@Keels I have to echo all the things people have said to this point in the thread. I also want you to know that since you inspired me to get me off my booty last year and onto my crazy idea to sign up for a million races, my friend started running, then my husband started running, his friend started running, my sister started walking, my aunt will be running this spring, and now this weekend my other best friend told me she started running and is going to do two 5ks with me in the fall. So right there...you are like the head of a family tree of newbie runners. I know that doesn't take the sting away from what you are going through but I hope that brings a smile to you today.
I'll be there cheering for you in Chicago and smuggling you a beer if needed.

ATTQOTD: My only major burn out issue was last year when I started a new plan that had 5-6 days of runs or cross-train and it was just too much for me to do and still feel like I had time with my family and with keeping up with my house and with work. Once I changed to 3 days a week I end up looking forward to checking them off the list and the burnout hasn't really gotten to me too bad. So I'd say...limiting myself to that many days of running is what is most helpful for me.

 

[Disney at Heart]

@Keels I have loved reading about your accomplishments, inspirations, attitude, love for others, encouragement, determination, and pure JOY. I am sorry you have had a bad diagnosis, but from what I have read from your posts over the last couple of years, you are going to be fine. You will find ways to be involved with the running community - running Chicago and Dopey 2018, and after surgery, maybe walking 5/10ks, coaching others, becoming a race director, volunteering, or cheering friends. And your ability to inspire and encourage will find other outlets. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way, and I believe in miracles!

 

[jhorstma]

ATTQOTD: Baby steps! When a training run falls into the unpleasant but Stacey category (must-do!), I resort to my tried-n'-true strategy of lining up the simple progression of steps that get me to "Total Time Five Minutes, Split Pace Ten Minutes Five Seconds Per Mile", at which point I'm usually good. Baby steps to my water bottle, baby steps to my ear buds, baby steps to the garage, baby step into my running shoes, baby steps out the door, baby running steps past the neighbor's car...

 

[Miranda]

Everyone has pretty much already said what I would, so I will just add, sorry @Keels, that really stinks. I hope that you are able to find some way to continue to do what you enjoy doing!

 

[opusone]

I'm pretty down-in-the-dumps, and my training has definitely suffered this weekend because of it.

My initial diagnosis of bursitis ended up in worse news in a follow-up from a specialist.

I always knew that my hips would likely need surgery because of how lopsided my body is, and because of the atrophy in my left calf from all the time I spent in casts because of surgery on my foot. I didn't realize it could happen this quickly.

Chicago will be my last "race". Dopey 2017 will likely be my last "challenge". I'm still working with my doctor on ways that can get me through Dopey 2018 and then I'll hang it all up. At least that's my goal right now. He's been very specific that once I have a hip replacement - be it full or even partial, running just isn't in the cards if I want to avoid future surgery.

I wish I'd started this journey earlier. There are so many places I want to see and races I want to run, and I don't think it's going to be possible for me to ever do them now.

Womp womp.

OK. Enough of my sad trombone act. I hope everyone else had a great weekend!

This sucks... I mean, really sucks, and I'm very sorry to hear it. It is understandable that you are down.

That being said, the silver lining is that they didn't tell you to stop immediately, so you still get to enjoy a few final races... and it will make these races even more special than they otherwise would have been. Also, you will likely be more motivated to train for these races since you will want to be thoroughly trained such that you can really enjoy them.

Looking beyond the next few races, though, what are your thoughts? Being in my mid-40s and noticing that my body cannot handle the running stresses as well as it used to, I have spent a little time thinking about what I will do if/when I can no longer run. Here are a few thoughts that I have had, and maybe they will help you:

Cycling: much easier on the body, similar workout to running, still get to see the great outdoors, lots of cycling events available to participate in.

Handcycle: I know this seems like an odd thought, but hear me out. It keeps you in the running community, you still get to participate in runDisney events, and you get phenomenal corral placement. One of the Dopey legacy folks made this transition: if you look up Don Gworek in past race results, you will see he was a runner in Dopey 2014 but he switched to handcycle for Dopey 2015 & 2016.

Swimming: much less stress on the body, better overall workout. The downside is that there isn't much to look at while exercising.

 

[dis_or_dat]

@Keels I'm so sorry to hear the news. You are such an inspiration to the running community here. Sending you best wishes.