HELP! How long does it take to get back to top shape after 2 years off?

Just to update, I ran 5 days last week and took some of your advice and took 2 days off.

Monday- 6 miles (45:46)

Tuesday- 7 miles (54:11)

Wednesday- 6 miles (45:37)

Thursday- 8 miles (1:02:10)

Friday- Off

Saturday-6 miles (44:46)

Sunday- Off

I felt better on these runs as the week progressed. I still feel very heavy which I expected but as the run progresses I start to feel a little more comfortable. Running without stopping (excluding red lights) was a big goal for me this week and fortunately I was able to achieve that. I really appreciate all of your feedback and support, it has really fueled me to get out the door and run knowing many of you have went through the same situation before. I know I am a long way from even competing again but I believe I am on the correct path. I will be sure to keep you all updated on my progress.

This post is a few months old but felt there needed some additional hope stories.

Dont fret. Your not done.

I was a conferance champ in college and took 15 years off. My first runs back were 11 min miles. 1 year later I was in the top 5 at worlds. And ran a 1:18 half in a half ironman. (Female)

The most important thing is to change how you training. I strongly recommend low heart rate training for at least 3 months. Concentrate on endurance milage. Take off the weight sensibly so you don't have tendon or muscle issues. With a dedicated training plan you will be happy in 3 months.

I know how you feel. I am in the same boat your in. I just ran 10 miles yesterday at 1:28 for an 8:52 pace. Last mile was tuff..I am training for my 1st half marathon in October. Looking to go. 1:45 for the HM

Do you have training partners to work with?

Tough to get back to where you were on your own

I am in the exact same position as your first post, with similar PR's (13:50/8:10/3:47) I've had around 2 years off also. Since 2015... How has it gone?! How long did things take to improve etc, have you got new PR's?

I would appreciate this insight as I begin my journey.

ComeBackSznnnnnnnn wrote:

I am in the exact same position as your first post, with similar PR's (13:50/8:10/3:47) I've had around 2 years off also. Since 2015... How has it gone?! How long did things take to improve etc, have you got new PR's?

I would appreciate this insight as I begin my journey.

It will probably take a year to two to get back to where you were. It will prob take about 6 months to get to the level and intensity of training you were at and then another year to year and a half of training like that to get back. Results may vary depending on your talent level, how much you can commit to recovery, how much work gets in the way, etc.

For me, it would take 3-5 weeks to get back in top shape.

West Side wrote:

Maybe you should ask the BYU mens team- most of them do this during the middle of their collegiate career.

I second this. They have had a lot of success with athletes that took two years off and then returned and did very well. I'm sure there must be some that it didn't quite work out that way, but if anyone would know, they would.

Would love an update reply from the OP if he's still trawling these boards. How close did you get?