Thursday, July 17, 2008

Struggling to get back into shape

Hey! I haven't posted for quite awhile...but I have really felt the need to lately. I have struggled since my 1/2 marathon to get back into running long distances. I had an IT problem first, now that it is cleared up-- I just had a miscarriage and was not running because my Doc said to keep it easy. Now that I'm no longer prego--I'm trying to get back into the groove. When I run I feel like I weigh 50 more pounds than I did back in April! I am SOOO slow...and each step takes great effort. I really hope that I can have the motivation to keep going and work back up to where I was. Any suggestions? support? Am I the only one struggling to run? I miss the runner's high and when I pass runner's while in my car--I want to cry, it's so emotional for me.

9 comments:

Lisa said...

First off... I am very sorry for your loss. Mild depression might hurt your motivation as much as slow legs. Take care of yourself emotionally and the physical part will come. Take it one step at a time.

Good luck! I am sure it will all come back soon.

cyber (((hugs)) coming your way!

Charity said...

I echo Lisa's sentiments...I know exactly how you feel, physically and emotionally....this same thing has happened to me as well...Don't feel like you have to jump back into everything all at once...the good thing is your muscles have memory, and remember so although you may feel like you are struggling, soon, you will be right back to where you were when you were training for your half...

My suggestion? Don't worry about how many miles you are doing, or how fast you're doing them in...sometimes, it's better if you just get out and walk/run then if you worry about where you used to be...

Thinking of you, praying for you....you'll get there...it's never easy but always worth it!

Felice Devine said...

Oh, I am so sorry for your loss!

I agree with Charity -- don't worry about your speed, just go out there and it will all come back. If you have any hilly routes near you, maybe you could try getting to them for long walks. Hills definitely build up your strength and walking them now would make your runs easier down the road.

Good luck.

Sending you positive thoughts!

R I C E said...

I am a new member and just felt I had to leave a post. I am also sorry for yours and your families loss. I read a few inspiring articles in runners world and competitor online and it sure got me pumped. Also, driving a little out of your neighborhood into al new place might help a bit. Good luck, girl!

Ang said...

Maggs, I'm so sorry to hear about your recent loss!!!!! ((((Hugs))) from me too!

I am having a SUPER hard time getting into a groove as well. So I have decided to sign up for a race. That's seems to be my only solution. That, and I got a new running top. :) I'm sure shoes are next. :)

I think Jamie has a point too about finding a new place to run. I did that last weekend and it great!

Good Luck. Keep us posted.

Suzie Petunia said...

I am also very sorry to hear about your loss. You're doing the right thing by getting out there to run even when it is hard. It will all come back to you - you know it will. Just take it one run at a time. Go for time instead of distance.

Maggs said...

Thank you all SO much. Your comments have helped me to realize that I am doing the best I can for right now. I hope it does come back, because I want it more than anything. I appreciate your support! You are all awesome and inspiring.

Jen said...

From a mom with no experience and training for a marathon....you just take it one step...one mile at a time. You have bad days and good days but you can't beat yourself up over the bad ones. Everyday is a new chance to improve. Breath. Learn. You are doing a great job.

Kelly(M&M) said...

Hi Maggs,

I don't know how I missed this post or if you will see this response. I am so so sorry for your loss. That is such a tough trial. I hope you are feeling some peace. As for the running, I echo the other girls, just take your time. Meet up with a friend (maybe Hannah) for some venting time or find a new route by yourself for thinking time. If you need some motivation just to get out the door, sign up for a 5k. Don't worry about the long distances right now. They will come back, I promise.

I am thinking of you. Things will get better!