How Long Should My Recovery Be?
QUESTION: I have been dealing with patellar tendonitis and a small baker’s cyst in my right knee. I have continued with my half marathon training, because I'm running a half marathon in a couple of weeks. I usually only take a few days off after a half, but was planning on taking longer to rest the knee (I will cross train of course.) How long of a break would you suggest I take?
HAL’S ANSWER: I assume that you have seen a doctor who diagnosed those injuries, because I don’t possess an M.D. degree, nor do I pretend to practice medicine on the Internet. I defer instead to those smarter than me, or at least better trained in certain specialties. As to how much of a break to take, the period immediately after an important race might be the best time to focus on rest. Shift to cross-training for whatever length of time it takes, and be sure that you are 100 per cent cured before you step out the door to run. How long of a break should you take? A long enough break so that you can run injury-free.
Hal uses TrainingPeaks to power his interactive marathon and half marathon training plans. Check out more of Hal Higdon's training plans here or on his website. Archived Q&A's from Hal can be found here.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012 at 8:00AM
Reader Comments (1)
Hi Hal,
I am a brand new runner and purchased your training program for a 10 miler. I am nearing the end and was wondering after I run my race what is the best way to recover? Do you have any programs for post runs? I definitely have enjoyed this experience and am now hooked on races (this will be my first one ever)! I plan on doing some 5 ks to improve my speed, but am unsure of how long I should wait to start, and after all the training for the 10 miler,I am not sure how long I should rest for? Also, what are your thoughts on energy gels? Do you use them? Would you recommend?
Thanks!
Margie