Today I was reading up on Fartlek training. It basically allows you to go from a lazy jogger to a racer. Well, I was thinking that could have been me, because I’m a very slow runner… er jogger with a 10k at just over an hour and a 5k always over 30 minutes.
But, I failed to mention that I’m currently writing this post from bed. Why? Well, 2 days ago I did an equivalent of a Fartlek training session and ended up pulling my knee out (I have an ACL tear straight though on my left knee). The reason is that I didn’t run with proper mechanics and with an already bad knee, the speed work only made it worse.
I think tomorrow I’ll be able to get out and do (at least) a 5 or 10k walk. Then it’s back to jogging (easy) and get my chi running working to rebuild my breathing and VO2 max (aka – get back in shape).
There will be time enough for me do speed training in the future, but for now I plan on running regularly and improving my technique at a speed that doesn’t make me sloppy and push my body to injury.
Wish me luck – and we’ll see how it goes. After all, it did do 4 10k races last month with no problem!
Aw, sorry to hear about your knee! Good plan to do some walking and easing back into it. Heal quick!
You bet. Thanks.
I’m sorry about your knee. I can relate to pushing yourself and suffering that type of injury. It happened to me over a month back and I was on the mend for a couple of weeks. Of course, I probably should have taken the time and concentrated on healing. One morning I thought I could “run through it” and only made it worse. I had to call my wife to pick me up the pain was so bad. Now I have accepted that fact that I’m older and I’m taking an easier approach to running. It’s helped. Good luck and I hope you’ll heal soon.
Looks like I’ll be taking it easy for a little while yet. Thanks for the support!
Just so you know, it’s Fartlek with a k at the end, not fartlet. fartlet training doesn’t sound too fun.
Hey, thanks for the typo correction! Nope, not fun at all. Doc says I’m off my feet until the PT says otherwise.