Stretching is Good For You

I'm a terrible runner for many reasons.  First, I don't train properly - I actually don't train at all. Second, I apparently don't stretch enough.

I've always had pretty good luck at races.  Aside from a couple items that I've neglected to pack, I always have my race essentials and have never had any real issues while on the course.  As it turns out, I was due for some pain and RNR Pasadena was going to be the race that would kick me in the ass (I got a medal, though...yay).

I was feeling fantastic for the first mile, but after the first hill at mile two, everything went downhill (literally and figuratively).  My calves were cramping.  My feet were burning.  Stretching didn't alleviate any of the pain. Sure, I played hockey and ran bleachers the day before, but that couldn't have been the reason why I was hurting (actually, yes, it could be the reason, but whatever).

I continued running through mile seven and when the pain become intolerable, I began walking.  Even then, I wanted to cry.  Each step hurt so bad!  My legs felt strong, but the soles of my feet couldn't stand the pressure.  When I finally crossed the finish line, my first instinct was to sit and stretch - which was great, until I stood up and wanted to crumple to the ground from the pain.

What was wrong, you ask?  Several things were wrong with me.  Because I don't stretch enough, my soleus (the muscle under my calf) was really tight, which caused the muscle to pull too much on my Achilles, which became irritated and started making a weird snapping sound.

Remember that song "My hip bone's connected my knee bone" or something like that?  Yeah, it's true: everything is connected to everything.

Lesson of the day:  STRETCH!  If you don't stretch before your run, please make sure you stretch after.  And don't rush through them either!  If you need more stretching tips, check out this link for more info!