Running is beautiful because it can be so many different things to different people: therapy, an escape, a source of confidence or independence, a form of exercise or meditation, a link to the community, an igniter for that competitive fire, a hobby, or even a job. For me, as a pro runner, it is my job, but I would never call that the primary role of running in my life. It is so much more to me that a source of income–it is a source of joy, power, confidence, meditation, and community. That’s why, when an injury takes running away from me, it is so devastating. The immediate dread of missing races and losing fitness is far outweighed by the loss of the joy of training, the social connection of joining people for runs and workouts, and the mental reprieve of heading out for a run after a stressful day.
With that said, my best advice to anyone struggling with an injury is to try to find new ways to fill these holes–including the fitness hole. Find other sources of joy (for me it’s been trying new walking routes with my puppy and exploring new recipes in the kitchen), ways to connect (paddle boarding, going out to eat, attending a concert, etc), and a new escape (call a friend or family member, go on a walk, take a bath, etc). Filling these holes for me is still a work in progress; I try to fill the void, but my alternatives never seem to measure up to the pure joy of running. However, I have become an absolute pro at filling the fitness gaps. I’m able to feel confident about my dedication to training and recovery, and rest knowing that I have done everything possible to set myself up for a strong return to running.
Watch the video below to see how I’m setting myself up.
