Flying, and then . . . Injury

I very rarely trip when trail running. I might stumble a bit when I get tired, but I am usually very careful and able to remain upright.

Last week I was messaging my coach talking about how next year I’d like to focus on speed instead of increasing distance, perhaps doing an off road triathlon and then doing a hundred miler in 2020. But DH is worried about me busting my head open if I try mountain biking.

“Don’t worry,” she said. “The funny thing, is so often people get hurt doing the most random things, and NOT when running or biking, haha! We had a client who had to sit out for 2 months this year because she tripped over a dog at a Christmas party.”

I think I jinxed myself.

After taking a couple of days off because of post-travel digestive issues, DH and I went out for our usual Thursday evening trail run at the Ravines. My legs felt so fresh, and even with running up the hill my heart rate was not even at zone 2. I felt like I was flying. The training is working! DH was surprised that I was pushing him with minimal effort. I was admiring my low heart rate and minutes per mile when . . . BAM! My knee hit the ground, which is clay and hard as concrete. Shocked, I got back up and started running again to feel it out. My knee had an awful scrape and I had a pain that I was trying to run through while figuring out where it was.

When the pain didn’t shake off but instead got worse, I decided to call it a day. I hobbled to the nearest road while DH ran back to get the truck. I tried not to panic, dreams of my first 100K going up in flames. I guess that’s what I get for being over confident.

Turns out I strained my hip flexor. I have an appointment with a PT today to get advice on whether or not I should run or walk any time soon. My coach says that I have enough base mileage in that even if I have to take some time off, I should be able to complete the 100K in a month, although it might not be a strong finish.

In the meantime, I am looking ahead and trying to figure out my race schedule for next year. It helps keep my mind off the injury. It is really strange not being able to train. Over the weekend DH and I binge watched the latest season of Orange is the New Black. Last night we went out for sushi. But what I really want to do is run, especially since I’m seeing progress.

How do you get your mind off things when you are injured? Let me know in the comments!

For more fitness inspiration be sure to check out these running link ups: The Weekly Wrap hosted by hosted by HoHo Runs and Wendy from Taking the Long Way Home and Tuesdays on the Run with Patty, Erika, and Marcia!