my enemy is my friend?
This winter has been brutal. There’s just been so much cold and snow – the latter being the much bigger challenge. It’s only been during the last couple of weeks that winter has begun releasing its grip. But, even in these past fourteen or so days, running has been difficult because of all the slush and ice I’ve had to contend with. Last week I wrenched my neck trying not to fall on some ice, and this Saturday I got a very nasty raspberry on my knee when I actually did fall. Ouch.
And it seems I am not done whining because, as the snow and ice have given way to clear pavement, I’ve been surprised that even running on “good footing” has presented me with a bit of a challenge. It seems that pavement is harder than snow and ice (aside: the colder it gets, the harder the pavement and soles of your shoes get).
You may snicker but going from 70 miles a week on snow to 70 miles a week on pavement was not a 5-second transition – it took me most of last week to adapt. The solution: To intensify my focus on a quick foot-pull and high stride rate.
The Good News: I’m back to feeling light on my feet with no aches, pains or signs of pronounced fatigue.
The Better News: Even though it’s hanging on as long as it can, winter is about to lose the battle I’ve been waging against it.
The Best News: Winter didn’t kill me – in fact, slogging through all that snow has made me stronger.
I’m ready for hills.
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Comment by La Lynx
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Monday March 19, 2007 @
That’s one way to show appreciation for the season.