The journey, not the destination

by user ActiveEnduranceSports

The past couple of days have been challenging for me both physically and emotionally as I attempt to process the fact that I won’t be running the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon on Sunday. I have come to learn that life lessons take on many forms and my recent injury is no exception.

First and foremost, I recognize that I am blessed with an amazing support-network of family, friends and co-workers who are always looking out for me. If those who feel alone in this world could be this fortunate, there would be less of a propensity to seek refuge in destructive activities that prolong the recovery process.

With that being said, it is important to recognize that overtraining for an event can be more harmful than not being adequately conditioned. If you aren’t properly trained, you can still walk, crawl, or skip your way to the finish line. If you’re injured, you can’t even cross the starting line.

During training, a relationship with your body will develop that requires the utmost attention. Not listening to your body’s signals is like not being there for a friend who is in need. Every athlete will respond uniquely to an over-the-counter training regimen so an adjustment of mileage and intensity to preserve this relationship is encouraged. The article “ Overuse injury is preventable,” by the American Running Association, offers suggestions that will keep you healthy and strong all the way to the finish line.

Train smart, not hard.