I need advice - training for the full

[escape]

WDW '08 will be my first full. I've been doing 'OK' (nothing spectacular) with my training until this past weekend. I hurt my upper back last Thursday - by getting out of a chair of all things. I wish I could make up a better excuse.

Anyway, I was scheduled to do an 18-miler on Saturday. On the day I hurt my back, I could barely walk. The doctor thought it was muscular and prescribed some pain pills. By Saturday, I felt better but still really sore. I did manage to walk on the treadmill for 10 miles while holding on to the handles for balance. This next Saturday, I'm scheduled to do a long run of 8 miles. The week after, 20 miles, then taper. Here's what I've done in the last few weeks (long runs):

Nov 17 - 16 miles
Nov 24 - 8 miles
Dec 1 - 13 miles
Dec 8 - 10 miles

Today, I'm feeling much better. My question is this - should I do more than 8 miles this weekend? Or, am I doomed?!!

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Susie, I am sorry to hear this. My advice is not necessarily what would be best, b/c your doc probably needs to advise you about that part.

I'd say if you are ok to walk, go with the step back week (8) and let that back heal up. You don't want to aggrevate it more. You've been training all along. You have a good base set.

What pace have you been at? Reason I'm asking is worst case you will have to slow up for the event.

If you are able to slow down so as to not injure yourself further and doc says ok, go for the strolls as the weeks call for in your schedule and instead of going up to the 20 week make that 20 week your 18 and you can add a mile or two if you are feeling ok. If not taper at 18 you'll make the marathon. It will be mind over matter at this point, and your mind will get you there. It's WDW!

 

[AmyBeth68]

I'm sorry to hear about your injury . I just want to give you the confidence that you have created as strong base in your running...and that can carry you through. Personally, I'd just go ahead and goal for 8 but stop if you get pain. See how it goes from there.

And just know that even if you don't get your longer runs in, you can STILL finish the marathon. Last year I got injured after my 16 mile LR and basically had to stop running until the marathon. I was still able to finish...it wasn't pretty or fast...but I finished . Have confidence that you've built up a great base and allow yourself to heal. The best advice I have for you is that showing up healthy is your main goal right now.

Good luck!!!

 

[escape]

Lily and Amy, thanks for the replies and the encouragement. I know how important these long runs are and with my slower pace, I was a little worried.

Lily, I'm currently at about a 14 minute pace.

I did leave out one little tidbit (the meds must be responsible for my omission ). I was able to do a short walk/run of 5 miles today with no problems. That's why I was wondering if I might should increase my mileage this weekend since I'm doing better. My doctor seems to be okay with an increase as long as I listen to my body.

 

[Cruella de mom]

My doctor seems to be okay with an increase as long as I listen to my body.

I would still increase slowly or at least plan on doing loops so that you can stop early if you start to hurt.

Also, were you on the pain meds when you did your 5 miles? I would be very careful about taking the meds before a workout, they might mask pain that would otherwise be a warning signal.

I know some pain meds and anti inflamatories are supposed to be taken around the clock in order for them to work best, but be very careful running or walking while on them.

Also, I agree that you will be abel to do the marathon with the base you have already established. High mileage training runs are great when you are healthy, but they can also sabotage the whole marathon when you are injured.

Good Luck!
Cecilia

 

[padisneyfan]

Susie---So sorry to hear that you had a back injury. Sending pixie dust your way.

I am totally unqualified to give any advice, but I would think you need to listen to your body.

Nancy

 

[TEK224]

Susie - so sorry to hear about your injury. I agree with the others. Take it slow, so you don't aggravate anything. You'll do fine. Two years ago I strained a quad and could not run at all for two months before the race. I could walk fine, but every time I tried to run, I'd get shooting pains in my quad. By taking it easy, it heale and on both race days I made it to the inish line. It wasn't fast and it wasn't pretty, but I made it! You will, too!

Terri

 

[ultramickeymouse]

Susie,

Better be undertrained and healthy than overtrainied and injuied. Rest up and be ready to have fun in a few weeks.