I was in the same boat as OP, and then moved to cycling after college. My body handles the training well, and I was shocked at how far the natural talent to run a 4:30 H.S. mile can take you in the cycling world. I blew through Cats 5,4,and 3 in less than one full season each, all while riding only 3-4 days a week.
Thanks guys. I really needed some affirmation of people who had gone through adversity and stuck through it. I'll keep trying for the forseeable future and hopefully come back to running.
NaOH wrote:
19 years old, male, division 3 runner with PR's of 4:30 mile, 1:58 800m, 16:03 5k.
I've been dealing with an achilles injury for the past year (last raced November 2014) and it's not getting any better. I've done 2 rounds of PT and countless different techniques to try to heal the injury. I've dealt with many injuries in high school including other achilles injuries and have had only 1 good season ever (junior year HS outdoor where I set all my PRs). I've been through mono, chronic strep, stress fractures, etc... Basically, I don't know if I can continue running/training at a high level anymore. My body seems to be completely failing every time I try to train.
I'm at a bit of a loss for words considering I've never formally written any of this down. What I really mean to ask is what do you guys think about hanging up the spikes forever and moving on with my life? Is putting myself through this even worth it anymore?
Former D3 runner here. Don't quit. Take time off until you're ready to go again. That time may never come, in which case you'll know that did all that you could do. At your age, even an entire year away from competitive runner will not kill your future. Those BYU dudes take two years away as missionaries and come back to compete.
RIP: D3 All-American Frank Csorba - who ran 13:56 in March - dead
RENATO can you talk about the preparation of Emile Cairess 2:06
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2024 College Track & Field Open Coaching Positions Discussion