I used to run at least four or five times per week, someplace from six to ten miles.
I loved the fresh air, opportunity to clear my head and toil up a even-handed sweat, however after a run, there is no question that I have more energy and prefer a better mood. Almost two years ago, I severely damaged my back during a property improvement project. I strained my trapezius muscle and was stuck flat on my back for three weeks. Getting back in shape was a slow process and inclement weather kept me indoors. I got heavily into jumping rope. It is a full-body workout that requires a good deal of endurance, skills and balance. I practiced to achieve the more hard skills and got quite nice at it. I then stepped on a hand weight during an exercise session and rolled my ankle… The injury caused swelling, pain and limited my ability to workout. I was unable to get back to high intensity aerobics for six weeks. I then needed to be cautious about putting strain on the ankle for another month. I didn’t dare run. I’m not all healed up and the weather is attractive. I’ve decided to start running again. I am shocked by my lack of stamina. I had hoped that all of the jumping rope would keep me in shape, however, jumping and running are two really weird styles of exercise. My first run was excruciating. I felt slow, sluggish and out of breath. I ran for two miles and then needed to walk for a bit before running two more. I am a little embarrassed by how tired and sore I was from that short and pitiful effort. I am determined to get back into superb running shape.