I have now slowly started running again – and thankfully without feeling any issues with the leg that previously troubled me. It's a huge relief. Over the years, I've faced many injuries, and I've learned how to keep both my fitness and spirits up when I can't run – and how to come back stronger.
Alternative Training: Find What Motivates
When running isn't an option, it's important to keep the circulation going in other ways. For me, it's been a mix of desire and strategy: The summer weather has really invited outdoor cycling, and I've enjoyed hitting the roads.
Additionally, I've done a lot of virtual cycling on Zwift indoors – the competitive element has made it easy to get intense and effective training in, even when motivation has fluctuated.
A specific goal helped me: I aimed to climb Alpe du Zwift in under 40 minutes. It gave me something to train towards, and over time it became not just about beating my own time – but also another runner's. That kind of challenge can really ignite my spark.
Strength and Mobility: Come Back Stronger
Alongside, I've focused heavily on strength and mobility, especially in my legs' "posterior chain" – the area that has given me the most problems. Specifically, I've worked on calves, hamstrings, glutes, hips, and core. It's been a combination of mobility exercises and strength training on a mat, often with bands, foam rollers, and small tools that are cheap and relatively easy to acquire but can make a big difference.
It's about finding and working on your weaknesses – and using the injury period as an opportunity to build a stronger and more resilient body.
Injury breaks are never easy, but they don't have to be wasted time. With the right choices and a bit of patience, you can keep both your fitness and mind somewhat intact – and hopefully soon be back in even better shape than before.
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