Light at the end of the tunnel
August 24th, 2010 by Andy NicollAt last I think I can feel some improvement in my foot…..
My plantar fascitis came on in the middle of May and I’ve not been able to run more than about 3 miles since - that’s by far the longest lay off I’ve had for over 10 years.
To be honest after 10 years of ever increasing distances and difficulties, I guess I was due an injury so can’t complain too much, but that doesn’t stop it being mega frustrating.
My MRI scan showed an inflamed fascia and damage to my achilles tendon (which I had no idea about). When I asked my doctor friend about my achilles he just said that’s what I should expect after running so far and being so old! Gee thanks Phil.
Anyway, my months of enforced rest and patience seem to be paying off as I’ve done a few 3 mile runs over the past few weeks with very little pain.
However, I’m going to be sensible about this and not do what a lot of folk do and try and come back too soon. I’ve told the Ben Nevis race committee that I can’t make the race - the first time I’ve missed this classic for quite a few years - and I’m concentrating all my efforts into getting bike fit for the 3 peaks cyclo cross in September. I’ve set myself a challenge of riding at least 100 miles a week over the next 4 weeks then resting down for the week before the race.
Once the cross race has been and gone my plan is to try and ease back into running in the last quarter of the year and hopefully be able to get back to full training in January.
Despite all this, me and my long distance pals have still been throwing around some ideas for projects in 2011. The table is creaking with suggestions at the minute some of which include The Bob Graham Round, climbing Mont Blanc, The West Highland Way, The Cuillin Ridge on Skye and even the GR20 trail in Corsica. Add to that the Fred Whitton and Dales Etap bike sportives and next year could be quite busy!!
I was really pleased to read Jamie’s new blog and sincerely hope he manages to battle through the first few weeks of ‘why the hell am I doing this’ to reach the point where suddenly you realise ‘ahhh it all makes sense’.
Not sure about his technology approach though - to me there’s only one thing you need to be a good athlete - a postive mental attiutde.
Wow it’s late - better go get some sleep I’m cycling to work in the morning.
