As much as I hate to admit it I have decided to not continue with my triathlon training. It appears as if my body is not made to run in any form or fashion. About a month ago I did too much too soon and ended up with the beginning of shin splints. This in turn led to starting to have problems with my ankles. It appears as if the shin splints are healing but I'm still having trouble with my ankles. I've tried a little jog here and there and it just isn't happening as I can feel the shins screaming at me to stop. So.... where does that leave me with exercise.
I am not defeated and I do not feel bad about giving up. I gave the training 100% + and I feel great about what I was able to accomplish. So my back up plan is to get back to 1 - 2 days a week of yoga, some daily strength training, and at least a 30 minute walk every day. I will also incorporate a bike ride each week. I hope to throw in some swimming in the summer as I rediscovered my passion for swimming. I also hope to do some hiking and maybe kayaking with friends as well. Will keep you updated on all of this as it progresses.
What I would really like to point out is how important it is to listen to your body, honor yourself and accomplishments and don't worry about competing with anyone. As humans we will keep pushing ourselves to either prove something to ourselves or to someone else. What or where does that leave us? A very hurt and/or broken body. In my practice I see the results of what happens when people push their bodies too far and don't listen to them. They will end up with surgery, joint replacements, or chronic pain and often seek my services to help alleviate this pain and discomfort. It's important to listen to our bodies and know when something isn't working for us and find an alternative to that activity. It really isn't the agony of defeat it is an act of wisdom.
I leave you with these questions is my form of exercise hurting my body and what can I do to continue my exercise that will not be as stressful to my body?
