The Slow Road Back

Today was an important day for me. I've had the back issues. I still have the LCL issue, but I was determined to run for the first time this year. The goal was 1 mile. The place was a flat, flat, flat, did I mention flat portion of the Monon. The plan was to run 1/2 and walk 1/2 if I could.

I needed some tools though.... A few weeks ago I tried walking in a Hoka Bondi. If you have not tried these shoes, I think they are worth it, especially if you are prone to injury or issues.

As I walked in the shoes at work, I noticed one thing, my left leg didn't bother me. It was the first time in months I walked around not feeling pain on the left side. The Hoka rep was kind enough to give me a pair to test out. So today I gave them a spin.

The other tool also came to me last week. CEP, which is a leader in compression, has designed a knee sleeve. I've used this at work for a week, and I notice I feel little discomfort on that left leg. So I thought I should put it to the test and run with it on today.

I got to my spot in the center of Carmel. I stretched a couple of minutes, and then, verrry slowly I started. It's awkward to run in new shoes. These were no exception. The Hokas are very cushy. Most of the time I don't like that kind of cushion, but today was ok.

I started with a slow jog, for 1/4 mile.  The knee area felt tender as I ran, but not too sore. I walked for the next 1/4 mile. My leg felt better. At the midpoint, I took a breather, then headed back to the car. This time I walked 1/4 mile. I ran the last 1/4 mile. Towards the end of the run, my main thought was not to push too hard. I could tell 1 mile was all the leg would allow today. At the end my leg was a bit sore, but not horrible sore. I stretched, and did a walk around the parking lot, then headed home.

Did I like the Hokas? I did. I'm not sure how they will hold up to my extreme supination. Time will tell. I was glad to have the brace on. Most important lesson....I need to have a doctor really look at this, and tell me what I need to do. $$$

The goal is to be able to run a 5K later this year. So today was a good first intro back. Felt good to be out there with the other runners.

Charlie