Comments on: It keeps you runnin’

By: The Modernish Father

The Modernish Father — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:49:44 +0000

Wow, I think this is the most comments I’ve had in a while. Who knew a little bit of running would get you people all worked up?

Shin splints were a big problem for me in the past, but I’ve been able to avoid them so far (knock on wood) this time around. The biggest things I’ve done differently this fall:

1) Stretching, serious stretching. It’s mildly embarrassing to be the old guy stretching like a third-grader on the locker room floor, but it’s helped a lot, especially with the early stages of my runs. I don’t tighten up after a mile or two.

2) Mixing in cycling. I had a foot injury a few weeks ago that forced me onto a stationary bike for a couple of days and I’ve tried to hit the bike at least 1-2 times a week since. It allows me to still work out and strengthen my legs while giving my feet and lower legs a break.

3) Bigger shoes. My foot injury was caused by improperly sized shoes. They were properly sized for every day wear, but not running. I wear a full size larger shoe when running to accommodate the swelling of my feet when I run. When my feet were hurting, I automatically started adjusting my stride to compensate and my shins started hurting because of the stress I was putting on them. Bad mojo.

4) Most of importantly, I adjusted my stride. In the past, I tried to jog like I was running a sprint – putting all of my weight on the front of the foot and pushing off with my toes. Now I strike the ground on the middle of my foot and roll through the step until I push off using the ball of my foot. (Another reason I wear a larger shoe when running – it’s damn near impossible to push off of your toes if you’ve got some extra room up front.) It’s made a huge difference.

By: Valerie

Valerie — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:15:02 +0000

As a new runner myself, I’m WAY impressed. I still top out at about 1.5 miles which seems ridiculous after hearing about you. Also, don’t you have trouble with shin splints? they’re killing me and preventing me from progressing with my running. Tips and/or suggestions are welcome!

By: Angela Degelman

Angela Degelman — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 20:55:26 +0000

Very motivational Nicholas!! I trained for the half-marathon at one time and running is great! I know that it worked for me! Then I had foot surgery and never went back. Keep it up and keep writing about it! Maybe you’ll motivate me some more!

By: nonsoccermom

nonsoccermom — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:37:19 +0000

I’m glad you’re enjoying it! And I’m also glad that you aren’t expecting my lazy ass to enjoy it with you!

By: Bridget

Bridget — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:31:55 +0000

That is AWESOME. I really wish I could like running just even a little. But sadly so far, not so much!

By: Sheridan

Sheridan — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 17:05:57 +0000

That is so amazing! Good for you! I can’t even convince my lazy butt to get off the couch to take the trash out.

By: Jeff

Jeff — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 16:40:05 +0000

Up to 10 mi in a month is impressive; you might have a knack. If I may advise, keep an eye on the mileage increases (<10% increase per week now that you have a routine) and respect your rest days and recovery weeks. Fear of injuries is the price we pay for our adult-onset athleticism?

I'm enjoying following your progress; cheers.

By: Kristine

Kristine — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 15:50:45 +0000

I used to run in jr high and high school when I was upset, mad, angry, etc and even then I wasn’t very fast and I didn’t run for great lengths or anything…now I only run if chased. You people who can run great distances impress me.