There's nothing wrong with rerouting once in awhile.
Thank goodness we don't have to be stuck on a one-way path on our feet, on the bike or in life. Besides, taking a detour will allow us to see a few bonus details we otherwise wouldn't have experienced. At least that's what I'm embracing at the moment.
As my fitness world adjusts to my current reality, I'm having to reroute my routine. It's been an interesting challenge thus far, and certainly remains a work-in-progress...
Before I share the details, welcome to the Weekly Run Down!
I love hosting this link-up with Deborah (from Confessions of a Mother Runner)! If you write a fitness-based blog, you're invited to join the party. The link-up opens at 1:00 (EST) on Sundays and remains open through noon on Monday. We love reading about everyone's weekly fitness endeavors, training highlights (or low lights) and race recaps. We ask that you link back to both hosts, and we encourage you to read/comment on the other linked blogs as well...please don't link-drop & dash ;-)
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So, here's what went down in my little world of fitness this last week:
Monday's #nevermissaMonday
With the running (and walking) sabbatical in full force, my Monday routine will be happening courtesy of Gustavas for awhile. It is what it is, and that's my reality...might as well just go with it. Five sunrise miles and my Monday already felt like it was off to a great start.
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| How do ya like that cotton candy sky? |
A new #TypicalTuesday routine
The summer temps had returned, and I saw no reason to complain. The delayed sunrise, though? Yeah, that I do take issue with. But, late as it was, the sun had a beautiful (almost mysterious) red glow for the first few minutes as it appeared over the horizon (I think Iowa may be feeling some mild after effects of the California wild fires). Those eight miles with Gustavas were well worth it for that alone.
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| That red orb, kissing the wind turbine, is the sun |
#GotBalance on Wednesday
Wednesday morning had me doing some lower-body strength/balance work. Already, I'm concerned with developing a nasty imbalance with my leg strength. After all, neither are working in sync right now. One is trying to function as "normal," while the other is partially immobilized with an awkward boot for much of the day...causing the uninjured leg to over-compensate. No bueno.
My strategy is to find strength moves that will engage the leg muscles without putting any excess weight or strain on my feet. I'm leery of doing lunges or squats right now, but good, old-fashioned leg lifts are doing the trick! I can do these seated,or lying on the floor. If I do them standing, I use a chair for support, so there isn't any extra load-bearing on my feet.
In addition, I had an absolutely crazy afternoon at work, getting home much later than anticipated. Normally, I'd be able to go for a run or a walk...but now it's Gustavas to the rescue. Ten (easy) miles later, my mind was clear and all was well with my world again.
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#NoBatWings Thursday
In the morning, I did some upper-body strength work involving isometric holds with one arm, while lifting with the other. I don’t think to do these very often, but they’re a fun way to switch up a workout session. Also, there may have been some core work afterwards, and another post-workday endorphin ride (this one with Barb, for 11 miles).
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| flex and hold.... |
#FinallyFriday
Can I just say that Friday felt pretty slow in getting here? Trudging around with the boot all week had me so exhausted. I didn't need (nor want) a strenuous gut-busting sweat session, but I still wanted to get outside. So, nothing groundbreaking...six pre-workday biking miles with the hubby.
#LongRideSaturday
Obviously, there will not be any long runs happening on Saturday (or ANY day) for awhile. For the time-being, biking will have to be my endorphin poison. FYI, I'm keeping these rides easy (avoiding most of the hills), the gears are staying low, and I'm being OCD (Obviously Cautiously Diligent) with my foot placement on the pedal. I'm not wearing the boot on the bike (too awkward, and I think it would mess with my already-compromised alignment and/or balance), but I'm either taping my foot or wearing a support sleeve over the affected area. So far, this is working well and my foot is not feeling any pain or strain, whatsoever. That said, the hubby and I rode 16 miles with intermittent sunshine and almost nonstop wind on Saturday morning. Our average speed was 9.8 mph, which is very conservative as far as biking goes.
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| Don't be fooled by that sunshine...it didn't last for very long |
Sunday #SunnySunday
Brrr, more cool temps (62F). While those temps are heavenly for running, they are downright frigid on a bike (now I know why long-sleeved bike jerseys exist). But, that sunshine was pure perfection! Just a short 5-miler with Gustavas, and that's all she wrote (rode?).
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| A beautiful SUNday |
So, this week was very biking-heavy (61 miles). As I have said, I'm doing this cautiously. Most of my rides are short (5-6 miles, less than 30 minutes)...about the same time frame, but less effort, than if I were walking or running. Wednesday's and Thursday's strength sessions were solid. Going forward, I might be increasing the length of those to 30 minutes (instead of 15-20 minutes) since maintaining my strength is a crucial part in keeping things in balance as my foot heals. This rerouting project is a work-in-progress, and I expect it will be tweaked after my consultation with the podiatrist this week. Stay tuned.
In case you missed out, here's what else went down on the blog this week:
It's 'Fession Time, but where do I even begin?
In other news:
Friday Fashion Flair! I may have mentioned, previously, how fond I am of the color turquoise. Seriously, how could one wear this color and NOT have it brighten your day? Look closely, I'm also wearing matching shoes. I typically never wear athletic kicks to the office, and I certainly don't wear them unless I'm in workout gear. But, desperate times. A friend loaned me her knee scooter, so I gave that a whirl on Friday, (and Frank, the boot, hibernated at home). As always, you're welcome to join me on Fridays...post a pic on Instagram, grab the hashtag (#FridayFashionFlair) and be sure to tag me (@runningonthefly).
This boot...UGH. I seriously wonder why they don't provide an auxiliary shoe (of sorts) with an equal heel height. I have a pair of open-toe booties that have a similar heel height, so I have been wearing the left one at work (with the beautiful boot on my right foot). There is still an imbalance with my feet and hips, but it is easier to "walk" with less of a gimp. Driving is a nightmare, though...the boot doesn't fit under the steering wheel, nor would I be confident being able to "feel" the gas/brake pedals with it. My best solution is to leave a running shoe in the car, slip that on for driving, then don the boot when I get out of the car. My lower back is mucho angry right now. Not ideal, but (again LOL) this is a short-term thing. I got this.
I'm testing out some new-to-me fuel gels, from SiS (not an affiliate link). I used some of these a few years ago, and LOVED them, but now there's a few new versions. On Wednesday's ride, I was so exhausted from the workday, so I slammed one of the caffeine gels. Great flavor and and no adverse effects on the tummy. I'd call that a win! If you're interested in checking these out, code BIBRAVE20GEL will save you 20% (not applicable on already discounted products of special offers).
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Lastly, the high school football season is underway. The season has already been cut short (thanks to COVID), and there's no guarantee how long the season will last. We road-tripped 2-1/2 hours away to support our local guys (who had helped us, and the entire town, with the derecho clean-up). This little guy (gal?) appeared from out of nowhere on the bleacher by us. After the initial #EEK moment was over, I was able to appreciate his (her?) grandeur.
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| who knew praying mantises were fans of football? |
Anyways, that's it for now! Finally a week without any unforeseen drama, so I guess that's a (small) victory.
How was your week? Any change in the weather? Have you been appreciating the later sunrises? Ever done battle with an orthopedic boot?
Our sunrises/sets have had that amazing/eerie glow as well. I think I'd enjoy them more if I didn't know they were due to wildfire smoke. Your reroute seems to go as well as possible. Sorry that boot is such a PIA.
ReplyDeleteI agree...I love that red glow (and cotton-candy collage of color) but it's a bummer where it's coming from. The boot...UGH! I'm glad I have a knee scooter to use at the office because that boot was really making my entire body cranky.
DeleteKnock wood I've never been in a boot but my husband has quite the collection of "Franks" from his stress fracture and foot surgery. It's only a matter of time before these companies come up with a companion boot...hm the only name that comes to mind is "Bride of Frankenstein" which doesn't sound quite right;-) High 5 for getting it done!
ReplyDeleteHa ha...yes, "bride" is too flattering for such an ugly "person" LOL
DeleteThose boots are the worst! Have you tried using the stability ball for your strength training workouts? It's also a great way to do seating leg lifts and I love doing hamstring curls w it. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI will be trying all different kinds of strength workouts in the coming weeks. I got to sprinkle in some variety! My stability ball needs some air pumped in, but I plan to use that.
DeleteSounds like you're handling things in stride, Kim (so to speak). I'm sure it's definitely not easy. Thankfully I've never had to wear a boot.
ReplyDeleteAlso sounds like you kept yourself plenty busy! That's one week in recovery done. :)
Oh thank you! I had not thought if it as already one week of recovery done ;-) That just made my day!!
DeleteAwesome job with all of your bike miles this week! I had experience with the #bootlife a few years ago so I know exactly what you mean about the uneven aspect of it.
ReplyDeleteI'm still waiting on my SiS gels. I think I'm the only person on the campaign that hasn't received them yet and they have been stuck in NY for a week according to the tracking information.
Wow, that's a long wait for the gels! I"M hoping to try the salted strawberry next...I might be doing a longish ride after work one of these days (Wednesday?).
DeleteI've worn the boot twice--I don't recall any imbalances or issues while wearing it or after. But we're all different. You do you!
ReplyDeleteLucky you! I want your boot!!
DeleteThe boot height thing sounds very tricky. As someone with one leg longer than the other I know how bad those imbalances can make you feel. It's turned cold here and I was in a long-sleeve running top today, I don't have many without fuzzy insides, same with long leggings, so now I'm running more frequently I might have to make some purchases ...
ReplyDeleteThis is my first-ever experience dealing with imbalance issues. Virtually, everyone I to have worn a boot has had to seek chiropractic care while in the boot, or after they were out of it. I'm trying to stay ahead of the game with strength work, but my back is not very happy these days.
DeleteThank goodness you can ride! Those isometric moves are HARD! I’d rather do reps than have to hold my arm up. :-P It looks like you’ve got a pretty good new plan worked out.
ReplyDeleteThe iso moves are tough, which is why I like mixing them in once in awhile. My triceps felt these long after the workout was finished LOL
DeleteLooks like a lot of quality time with Gustavas! It's so great that the bike doesn't bother your foot. You're making the best of it!
ReplyDeleteGustavas has been my here!! Well, and the hubby, too...he's wanted to go on some of the rides with me ;-)
DeleteDo you ever rest???
ReplyDeleteYes had two stints in the boot. I had a shoe with the same height heel at the time. It was a pain literally.
You are a great attitude at least
The boot is really a pain, at least for my hips and back. I'm eager to meet with the podiatrist and get some more feedback.
DeleteYou're getting in some great workouts even with that boot! That's so great! I'm jealous of all the biking. And that sky - you saw some GORGEOUS sunrises this week.
ReplyDeleteThe sunrises were out of this world ;-) I'm glad I was able to see them first hand!
DeleteYou definitely have the skill to make the best of a less than great situation. Good job on staying active. It did take me awhile to find a way to be active when I was injured.
ReplyDeleteI felt like I lost my identity! Finding a shoe with the same heel height is a challenge for sure! Did you like the knee scooter more than the boot? I've never tried one, but I think I would like the boot better.
The knee scooter took a lot of adapting to get used to. After I adjusted the height of the pad, it was better. It is a bit awkward if I'm trying to carry stuff, but manageable. I"M on my feet all day at work, though, so the scooter is (so far) feeling like a better option at the office for getting around.
DeleteI am glad at least you have your bike. But I know that even without it, you will find some other way to stay active.
ReplyDeleteLooks like this week will be cooler--Fall weather, maybe?
We do have some cooler weather in the forecast. I still prefer summer temps, though LOL
DeleteYou had a great week on your bike! I remember the struggles of being in the boot...thankfully one pair of boots I had almost had the same size heel, but not quite. I was in my boot during winter and had to duct tape the toe to keep snow out! I hope your fracture heels up well.
ReplyDeleteOh gosh! The winter would be just another challenge to add to the boot situation! I'd be scared to walk on ice or through the snow.
DeleteGlad you could still stay so active this week! Thats alot of biking miles. Great job!
ReplyDeleteI probably went a little overboard on the biking, but it just felt so good to be doing something. I'll be curious to hear what the podiatrist recommends for me.
DeleteOh my goodness, I've always thought the same thing, "Why don't they supply a shoe with a heel of the same height for the other foot when you have to go into a boot." My biggest fear would be to develop hip issues from the unevenness. I'm glad your bootie comes pretty close to working.
ReplyDeleteGood job on keeping active despite the injury! Thanks for the linkup and please have another "uneventful" week!
Yes, my hips have been all kinds of crazy since last week, and my lower back ain't exactly smiling either. Do these experts not realize the 2.5 inch boot is gonna throw things off with the wearer's alignment? I'm also hoping for another "uneventful" week LOL
DeleteThanks for sending the 60s our way. I need it, and a little more sleep than the 430s. I LOVE SiS powder. Didn't get into the gels but will look to see if your code is good on the powders. Was surprised how fresh my cannister stayed a year later. Besides Monday's skies I love the hot pink of your Road ID. Nicely done on the cycling and h ope you get some relief on your back soon
ReplyDeleteI'm going to try to keep using the knee scooter at work, that's where I'm doing the most walking. SO far, that does give my back a little relief.
DeleteI've never had a boot but I had to wear a brace for six weeks a few years ago when I fractured my patella. It went from ankle to thigh so it was very cumbersome.
ReplyDeleteAny idea on how long you're going to have to wear this thing? I know you'll be really ready when you can get back out there.
The ortho specialist (at urgent care) said at least 2-weeks as a precaution. If I do indeed have a true stress fracture, it may be as long as 5-6 total weeks. I meet with the podiatrist on Wednesday...maybe he'll have a different time table (fingers crossed).
DeleteYou have done such an awesome job pivoting and making this situation work for you. I expected no less.
ReplyDeleteI would absolutely love to be able to wear a long sleeve jersey right now. As it is, I'm melting on the daily.
The morning bike rides have been chilly (but not like winter LOL), so I'm not gonna whine (much) about it. I'm just grateful to be able to get out and be active.
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