Frustrations and Blessings

Sunday, April 13, 2014 · Mike Davis

Good morning, Today I am suppose to run one of my favorite races (Reds Shoe Barn 5 miler), however thanks to a persistent calf strain I will be on the sidelines cheering on my wife Kathy. As injuries go a calf strain is probably the least worrisome, but nevertheless one that requires patients and attention. Attention I have given, but with my responsibilities the patients has been difficult. I stopped by Runners Alley Portsmouth yesterday and bought a pair of compression socks and while they might help getting through the hilly course possible, I am taking the wiser route and resting. Sadly Kathy signed up our whole family to run this race and due to work schedules and injuries, she is the only one running. For me right now I feel like I am at my worst point in some time as far as running shape. This winter was not my typical winter as I struggled to find consistency with my running and as the weather turned I got this calf strain. With the 10K training group in full swing I now have the challenge of working with that group, trying to heal my calf and getting back on track with my running. Thankfully I am able to do my strength training so that keeps be somewhat sane between the ears. Walking the second half of our 35 minute run yesterday was frustrating but thankfully it was a beautiful morning and it gave me a chance to count my blessings. Like every runner I want to run healthy and strong, but things happen and while it is easy to get down and frustrated, sometimes I have to take inventory and if I'm honest, my blessings through running far outweigh the negatives. Despite a problematic hip, a few other injuries and my current setback, I have been fortunate to run pretty consistent for the past 8 years. In that time I have run a marathon in Germany, been part of a great RTB team, ran up Mount Washington and most importantly enjoyed numerous runs with the greatest people. During the past 8 years I have also run well finishing in the top 10 percent of many races and consistently improved my PR's. Over the last couple of years I have slowed some, but I have enjoyed my running even more. The joy I have when I am out there on the streets of Dover by myself is like none other and finishing a run with my wife is truly special. Yeah, I am frustrated right now and that's not fun, but if I count my blessings I truly have nothing to be frustrated about. As a running coach I understand all too well the ups and downs of injuries and often we treat them to lightly. Taking the time sometimes means skipping a race, finding another form of exercise, or missing out on the camaraderie of our running groups. Those are all very difficult to accept and often lead us to run through injuries but we can't run through most injuries. So this week will not be a running week for me but instead I will challenge myself to do other stuff that won't effect my calf. I am truly blessed. Have a great Sunday and enjoy the road for me! Mike