Who here has made a comeback after college?

Bill Rodgers took several years off and started smoking a pack a day, and came back fairly well. Four Boston wins, four NYC wins, one Fukuoka win, made the '76 Olympic team.

Comeback train wrote:

Who here has took 4+ years off from running after college, possibly filled that time with other physical activity (such as lifting weights, etc.) and came back successfully to run fast and love running again?

If so:

1) How long did it take you to build your mileage back to a reasonable amount?

2) Did you enjoy running by yourself?

3) Was running ever the same?

4) What type of races did you enjoy doing the most?

5) Was the comeback worth it?

My story doesn't 100% fit your description, but it's relatively close. I ran in high school and into my sophomore year of college, although I was only road racing after high school. I took 4-and-a-half years off from running and boxed instead. Never in a million years did I think I'd be a runner again, but if you loved it once, you have the ability to love it again.

It only took me four months to get back to where I was, although I was a different athlete at 25 than at 20 when I stopped running.

Running by myself = a chance to discover myself and what I'm made of.

Life's too short bro. Give your comeback a shot or you'll be wondering "what if" the rest of your life.

I was an above-average runner in HS (4:20 1500, 10:26 3200, 16:4X 5k XC) and ran a year in community college before I joined the military. I spent the next 10 years running just often enough to pass my annual fitness tests- which wasn't much. I stayed fairly fit lifting weights, but just fell out of love with running.

Fast forward to this year, I coached the distance runners on a local high school track team. I had such a blast and watching these kids have fun reminded me of what I loved about running. Needless to say, I was motivated once again. I'm only a few months into it, but I've been running 4-5 times a week and am aiming to start a real base phase shortly and start the long road back towards competing.

I honestly believe I can run faster than my HS times, even at 30 years old (not yet, of course, but in time). Our HS program was low mileage, about 25 miles a week, and I have a much better understanding of training now. I'm easing back into it with mainly easy runs and a weekly tempo and long run. Eventually I'll add in some intervals and speed, but I want to be smart in my approach so I'm not cranking up to 50+ miles per week or constant V02 workouts anytime too soon. My plan is to work up to 40 mpw by the end of the year for XC season, take a very short break, and then work up to 50 mpw for track in the spring/summer. After that, I'd like to consistently run about 50-60 mpw in base phases at least.

I'm looking forward to running track events the most- there is a very active adult track league where I live. So far I really enjoy running, even by myself. Although when I start the real tough workouts I may join one of the running clubs around me.

Don't worry about whether or not a "comeback" is worth it. Just do it! I lost 10 years of running and I regret it, but now that I'm back into it I am loving it.

Comeback train wrote:

Who here has took 4+ years off from running after college, possibly filled that time with other physical activity (such as lifting weights, etc.) and came back successfully to run fast and love running again?

If so:

1) How long did it take you to build your mileage back to a reasonable amount?

2) Did you enjoy running by yourself?

3) Was running ever the same?

4) What type of races did you enjoy doing the most?

5) Was the comeback worth it?

I ran in HS and college in the 80s/90s and did not race for approx. 18 years. Kept in decent shape by surfing, running occasionally (2-3 mile runs with the dog a couple times a week), playing basketball/flag football and generally staying active. Started training again around age 40 to see how fast I could run a mile.

1) Took me at least a year to get back up to 35-50 mpw with a few injury setbacks along the way. I would say close to 18 months before I really felt comfortable going hard;

2) Absolutely love it (and also working out with friends occasionally);

3) The same? Not sure what you mean here. It still feels good to train and go hard. Feels much more therapeutic to me now than it did when I was angling towards big races in the old days (especially the college races).

4) Mile - always the mile. A bunch of 5Ks as well and cross country - 5K to 8K;

5) Most def - I lost a bunch of weight, gained a bunch of energy and reconnected with an old group of great running comrades.

Don't call it a "comeback," I've been here for years.

Comeback train wrote:

Who here has took 4+ years off from running after college, possibly filled that time with other physical activity (such as lifting weights, etc.) and came back successfully to run fast and love running again?

If so:

1) How long did it take you to build your mileage back to a reasonable amount?

2) Did you enjoy running by yourself?

3) Was running ever the same?

4) What type of races did you enjoy doing the most?

5) Was the comeback worth it?

Ran in college ~27:00 8k took ~4.5 years started running in March I was 202 lbs. I have since lost 33 lbs and recently ran a 5:10 mile.

1) How long did it take you to build your mileage back to a reasonable amount? I still haven't ~30 mpw, but I will try to increase mileage significantly in August, I plan on ~50 mpw depending on how my body feels

2) Did you enjoy running by yourself? Yes, I do. This is very surprising as I would skip runs before if I had no one to run with. I get to completely listen to my body and go my own pace. Also makes workouts made specifically for what I need and can adjust based on how my body feels.

3) Was running ever the same? No, its not the same. Before I ran for my teammates, now I run for myself.

4) What type of races did you enjoy doing the most? I have only competed in two races since my comeback, both were a mile on the track.

5) Was the comeback worth it? Yes, I have lost 33 lbs.

Here's my story for what it is worth. I ran in college on a not-very-good D1 team. PRs of 1:55 (800), 3:59 (1500), and 25:42 (XC 8k) (HS prs of 1:57 (800), 4:24 (1600), and 16:06 (XC 5k)). Never a high mileage guy -- probably peaked at 55-60 mpw and college track prs came off of about 45 mpw. Always got injured if I tried to sustain anything above about 50-55 mpw.

I more or less shut it down after college, though did some recreational running and the occasional road race (like maybe once per year) in the years following. Ran one decent race (1:18 half marathon) on very minimal training about three years out of college, and then was injured (actually during the race itself -- no surprise based on training). Went to grad school soon after and basically stopped running altogether, though joined the university's cycling team my last year and did a couple of races with the team.

At age 29 (soon after the birth of my first kid) I decided to run a marathon. Started running 10-20 mpw then did the 18 week build using the FIRST plan, which is basically low mileage, all quality. Probably peaked at 30 mpw, with 20 of that coming from a long run. A couple of months after turning 30, I ran the marathon in 2:54 (really poorly paced -- came though the half in like 1:21 and then kind of death-marched in). Felt good to be doing some structured training again though, and kind of whetted my appetite for racing again.

After some time off, I ran casually but consistently over the next year, averaging 15-20 mpw. Best race was probably a 5k in sub-17:10. Also did a few triathlons during this time. Tried to use the FIRST plan again for a spring marathon about 18 months after first, but got injured during the build (total case of trying to run too fast too soon off low mileage) and missed more than a month of training. Ran it anyway, in 3:06. Took some time off to heal, regrouped, and began consistently running 20 mpw or so during the summer. Had kid number 2. Built it up to 25 mpw (with one day of either tempo or fartlek and one longish run of 10-12 mi) by fall and ran a sub-16:30 5k and a 1:16 half off of that, at age 32. Also ran a ragnar-type relay with a bunch of my college teammates, which was super-fun. Ran reasonably consistently over the winter (15-20 mpw of just easy runs, no quality). Did first races of the year over past couple of months off that training, which went pretty well all things considered (17:00 5k and 55:00 15k).

Now 33 and planning to run a fall marathon. Currently running 25-30 mpw (with 12-14 mi long run, but no other quality) and planning to peak at 40 mpw (maybe 45) during build, using a Daniels-inspired plan. Goals for the fall are a sub-16:15 5k and a sub-2:45 marathon. Next year, I would like to maintain relatively higher mileage (35-40 mpw) but focus on the 5k and half, with the goal of breaking 16:00 and 1:15. In 2017, if all goes well, I'd like to take a shot at breaking 2:40 in the marathon. Basically, I am at the point where I am starting to chase my HS self (at least at 5k). By next fall, I'd like to be able to beat my HS self. Not sure if I'll ever beat my college self again, but we'll see.

To answer your specific questions:

1) How long did it take you to build your mileage back to a reasonable amount?

I'd say I'm just getting there now, so about three years. This is the first year I plan to run consistently more than 3 days per week.

2) Did you enjoy running by yourself?

Yes, that's never been a problem for me though I did just join a running club one of my college teammates is on and plan to do workouts with them a couple of times per month.

3) Was running ever the same?

Not the same, but still awesome. Really enjoying structured, goal-oriented training again and have enjoyed the self-coaching aspect (though obviously I have had some costly mess-ups). Racing is still super-fun. All of it is great "me-time" if you have kids.

4) What type of races did you enjoy doing the most?

So far it's been the 5ks when I've been in relatively good shape and felt like I was really racing for the win, as opposed to just out there running. The half marathon distance has also been fun, mostly because it's new and different. The two marathons I've done have been pretty brutal, but I'm still very much figuring out the event. The thing I'd really like to do but haven't yet is to run a road or track mile -- I have a feeling I'd really love it.

The other thing I did that was super-fun was the ragnar-type relay (12 people, 200 mi).

5) Was the comeback worth it?

Definitely. I think the key is being realistic about your time-horizon (i.e., think 5 yrs instead of 1) and making your goals realistic (i.e., chase your HS self as opposed to your college self).

I finished college and kept running, but soon found myself in a job that had a very very scattered schedule. Pretty soon I just stopped running. When you can get in 4 days one week, then miss an entire week... well you can see why it all just started to seem like a waste of time and effort.

I bought a house, spent a great deal of time renovating that but I really didnt do any form of working out at all. I ran in college at 138 lbs, I got up to 172 lbs. I was fat and dumpy.

Finally I changed jobs where I had a set schedule that allowed me to get back at it.

VERY slowly I started to put in more miles, then decided to try a marathon after watching a friend struggle through one. At that race I got the bug, and I got it bad.

1) I'd say it took me a good year to feel like a runner again. It wasn't easy. I had a few set backs due to injury.

2) I do enjoy running alone, but I have some friends I meet on the weekends for long runs.

3) It's not the same. Nothing compares to having your team mates and racing hard in college against your peers or the fun of team competition in HS.

But now I chose a city to visit and race, I race on my schedule. I still like the competitive aspect of it.

4) My favorite races are 10Ms and 1/2s. I've done my share of 26.2s but I like those other distances because you can race them more often and the training is more interesting.

5) Definitely worth it.

It took a year? I haven't run for 6 years. I jog once every few months. I did a 5k and got 27:23 because I was getting painful shin splints. I weight a little more then you do and I was 138 in HS. When did you start seeing weightloss? Did you diet?

Did you ever get back to your PR's? Mine was 17:41 for XC 5k but I like to run a better mile PR (4:41).

I didn't run in college but I was a 17-min guy in high school @ 170 lbs, didn't run for 6 years, then picked it up again because I was about to hit 200 lbs. Took about 1 year to get back to 170 and 17-min shape. 2 years after that I'm in sub-16 shape, lighter than I was in HS, PRing all the time and still going strong.

Bump because this thread inspires me!

How long would it take me to make a comeback?

I haven't trained in 4 years, smoke pot multiple times per day and for the past year have drank every night usually 4-5 beers. Working out has been minimal to none. I have only gained 12 pounds so weight isn't too big of an issue.

ran 16:00 for 5k back in the day

anyone with similar experience? lol

This is me lol

I was an OK runner in high school, 4:38 1600 & 9:50 3200. I stopped running after high school but worked out a bunch and played racquetball pretty seriously for a few years.

About 6 years later in the mid 90s, I befriended a serious marathon runner and began training with him in earnest. Within a year I was running close to 100 miles/wk and my times dropped steadily. Back then I was able to handle high volume without getting hurt. I ran all miles on dirt trails and went through a lot of shoes. I went from 36:00 for 10k to under 33:00 for 10k and 1:14 for the ½ mary in the first year. After another year I ran 1:09 and 2:30. I joined the Army in 1996 and stopped running competitively. It was tough for me to keep running as much and I gave it up. That decision has haunted me for a long time.

After I exited the Army in 2001 I tried many mini comebacks but always failed because of calf issues. I was never able to string together more than a few weeks of running. After finally getting a positive diagnosis, I had surgery for compartment syndrome in the fall of 2013. At 44 years old and about 8 months of post-surgery training I ran a 1:25 HM; a pretty good start. I topped out at 60/wk running 6/7 days/wk. I hurt my lower back soon afterwards and took the past winter to heal. I think I jumped in too much too fast. Learning what my middle aged body can and can’t do has been a process.

I can’t run near the volume I used to. And nowadays I fit running in between my life commitments. 20 years ago it was the other way around. This year I am taking a very gradual approach to mileage increases out of fear of injury. I don’t stress as much about missing a workout or skipping a quality day if I’m not up to it.

So this is comeback #2. It’s not the same as it was when I was in my 20s, but I enjoy it. I miss toeing the line knowing I may be able to hang in the lead pack or maybe have a chance of breaking the tape. Goals change. Now I’m mostly curious to see how fast I can get in my mid-40s within reason. I have a life to live besides running.

To directly answer your questions:

1. I was able to build mileage pretty quickly in my 40s, but I’m more fragile than I used to be. I get injured easier and it takes longer to heal, so err on the side of caution. Take your time building volume and run slower than slow for a while. It’s tough to get in shape laying on the couch nursing another injury.

2. I enjoy running by myself more than I used to. But I don’t fantasize about getting fast enough to run an OT qualifier anymore. Instead, I think about my next vacation or the next local race.

3. Running is the same. I enjoy the feeling of being fit and being able to drop a quick mile (relatively speaking) in the middle of a run. However, it’s taken a couple years to come to terms with the fact that I probably will not run any more absolute PRs in my lifetime…. Mortality is a bitch.

4. I haven’t raced much since coming back this time, but I enjoy competing against the local guys now more than I did in my 20s. Back then I was more apt to travel to bigger races for a chance of getting pulled to a new PR.

5. The comeback is always worth it if you are wise enough to set realistic goals based on your age, your body and your life. I love the sport as much as ever, maybe more. In my 20s I was only interested in getting as fast as possible and trying to win races. Now I find I enjoy the journey as much as reaching the destination. I’ve also adjusted where running falls on my life’s priority list. I won’t waste a Sunday on a 2 ½ hour long run and an afternoon nap. Instead, I’ll do an hour run and go for a fun hike with my wife.

Finished college in 3.5 years and went on to grad school so did not run 4th track season. Steeple 9:04, 5000 14:38. 30:38 in cross where I was more competitive than track. Went to do field work in African as a grad student and did not run for 10 years (kept doing field work in Africa... after a night of radiotracking wild dogs or lions with the late morning temperature pushing 100, a run is the last thing on your mind).

1) How long did it take you to build your mileage back to a reasonable amount?

About 4 months in I was back to two-a-days. It was fantastic to feel so much fitness coming so easily. From one month to the next, you're on a new plane.

2) Did you enjoy running by yourself?

Yes and still do, though I love running with my daughters also.

3) Was running ever the same?

No idea what this means. Consult your therapist for this one.

4) What type of races did you enjoy doing the most?

Everything from the mile (which I have never been good at, but what a blast!) to 50k trail. (But 100k SUCKS, don't do it)

5) Was the comeback worth it?

Yes

I don't quite fit this, since I never really stopped running, but I think I discovered a come back is possible. Right after college, I focused on the 5k. Actually ran some times near my college best , but always questioned if they were short courses. Then switched to longer distances and ended up not liking those. Switched back to 5ks and didn't do anything spectacular, until I had period where I got really serious about training and core work. Ran a series of PRs for the 5k at 27 years old (on the track, so I know they weren't short). Felt awesome.

Who here "has midden" a comeback after college.

I didn't run for about 4 years after college, and was 30 pounds overweight. I quit running because I thought it was time to move on to better things in life, like computer work and traveling. Running was something on my to-do-in-life checklist that I had ticked off.

I decided to run after hearing some friends say that they were going for a jog in order to prepare for a local 5k. To my surprise, I couldn't keep up with them. It was humiliating for me, since I always thought of myself as a fast guy who easily smokes all the hobby joggers. That was when I decided to make a comeback. I easily shed 15 pounds in 3 months (mostly visceral belly fat, which is the easiest to lose), and the muscle memory quickly came back. By then, no hobby jogger could keep up with me.

1st month: Tough at first. Couldn't run for more than 1 minute or 2 without stopping.

2nd month: Could run but still with heavy breathing. Surprised at how hard an 8 minute mile felt, given that I used to easily run 5 minute miles. Back then I thought that a 6:30 mile was slow, but now I'm getting put in the shoes of the regular population.

3rd month: Joined a local fun run and was in the front of the pack. Still had to briefly stop a few times to catch my breath.

6th month: Running more like a pro. More than 20 pounds lost by now. Joined a local race and was top 2%. Belly was flat by then. More subcutaneous fat lost, which is harder to lose.

After 1 year: Can easily run sub-6 minute miles like in high school. 30 pounds lost. Legs are thin and light, collarbones and ribs are visible, and looking like a real college runner.

And the rest was history.