I’ve tried rolling a frozen bottle of water underfoot, adding arch support insoles to my running shoes, and using KT tape. I even skipped a couple of runs last week and ran fewer miles than scheduled yesterday. Hopefully I can get back on track for my training schedule with three months left before my marathon.
In my seventh year of marathon training I’ve managed to avoid injuries. I’ve always had calf soreness during races and some training runs, but that’s about it. I’ve been fortunate but also careful about not overdoing it.
Last fall, I had a disappointing marathon finish and felt like I didn’t have enough endurance to reach my goal. I added mileage to my training regimen for a January marathon and had a much better finish. So I’ve been trying to add mileage for this training season as well.
I’ve also added some strength training and swimming this season. I’ve done a class once a week that targets different muscle groups, including many that I haven’t worked on in a while, such as in my arms and core. I’ve also tried swimming laps once a week. That’s something I’ve never done regularly. I think I’m seeing some good results so far.
I’ve also tried a hillier running course once a week and adding more mileage earlier in the season. That seemed to be working, although I was having a little more trouble with my calves and starting to have some foot soreness.
A week ago Saturday I ran 14 miles. I felt fine during the run, but the foot soreness came back afterward. I was planning to run 6 to 8 miles on the Fourth of July, but felt wobbly on my feet when I woke up. I decided it was best to skip that run. That’s when I started the frozen water bottle treatment, then bought the shoe inserts, and tried the KT tape. I ran 4 slower-than-usual miles on Friday and 8 miles on Saturday at a good pace. The feet (especially the stronger right foot) are feeling better.
I’m hoping I can ease back into my training this week and that preventive measures can head off any significant problem. It’s a balancing act to push yourself hard enough without overstraining. And now we’re dealing with the oppressive summer heat and humidity as well. I’ve known plenty of people who have suffered running injuries. I don’t want to be one of them.
I’ve used rolling pins before, but I like the idea of frozen water bottles. Take care of yourself!
Carolyn suggested the water bottles and the insoles. When we first started dating, she had plantar fasciitis. I saw what she went through and want to nip it in the bud.