I kept putting it off and putting it off; Ari agreed to run part of the way with me at 1 PM, so I decided to wait and enjoy a running companion. By that point I needed another snack to hold me over, so I dug into the sample box of Warm Cinnamon Heart to Heart cereal that I received in the mail from Kashi.
This was pretty good; it reminded me a lot of Cinnamon Puffins. I’d probably buy it and mix it with a heartier granola, but it held me through my run pretty well..
Ari and I set off. He’d intended to run about 2 miles, but ended up going for the first full 4.5 mile loop with me. This was the longest he’d ever run, second only to the GridIron 4 miler we ran together a few weeks ago! We took a few walking breaks, but the most important part was that we logged the miles. When we finished the loop, I dropped him off at the house, stopping inside to drink some water and munch on two Clif Shot Bloks.
These were part of a big package I received from Clif a few months ago. I really liked the Cran-Razz flavor; it was sweet, but just enough sugar to make me feel ready to start running again. It has a pretty smooth texture that you chomp right through; it doesn’t have the chewiness of, say, a Swedish Fish or Sour Patch Kid.
The trouble started on the second loop, around mile 5. My knee started to really hurt. At first I thought I could run through it; it felt more like a “sensation” than a “shooting pain”- this is the distinction the yogis on Yogadownload.com always say it’s important to make- but then the pain got so sharp it actually brought tears to my eyes and I had to walk. I was so frustrated. This was going to be my second time running 9 miles (the first was two months ago, at the NYRR Pete McArdle XC Classic 15K) and I’d expected my knees to hurt a little, but the pain not to be debilitating. Wrong. I’d walk a block or so, then start up again thinking the pain would lessen or I’d be able to suffer through it, but again the pain would shoot all the way from my the side of my right knee to my toes to my thigh. Is this Runner’s Knee? I know what I have to do: build up my quads, so I don’t put so much pressure on the knees to carry all of the weight and impact of repetitive stress. I just hope it’s not too late.
When I got home I took an Aleve and stretched, disheartened and worried. The half-marathon is in three weeks. My endurance is fine, but if I can’t run without sharp explosions of pain, how the heck am I going to run 13.1 miles? Do you run through the pain? If you’ve suffered from knee pain, what made it better?
At least my appetite was normal, and I tried not to let my aggression out on the fridge door while I prepared my lunch.
In the mix:
- mixed greens
- leftover salmon and roasted vegetables
- sauerkraut
- grape tomatoes
- hemp seeds
- rice vinegar/sesame oil
I also had an orange.
I had a lot of reading to do (another reason why a bum run was irritating… walking time takes away from work time) so I went to a coffee shop and parked myself there for a couple hours, sipping on a tall skim mocha (the best of both worlds: chocolate milk recovery drink + caffeine).
When I got home later I was pretty hungry, so I snacked on everything pretzel crisps with hummus.
Dinner was Heidi Swanson’s Simple Farro & Bean Stew. I couldn’t find farro at the grocery store and didn’t have time to go to another one, so I just used brown rice instead. I also substituted sweet potatoes for waxy potatoes. After my initial sprinkle of parmesan, I added a slice of Asiago.
This was such a comforting dish: hearty stews are so cozy to eat in the winter. I should have halved the recipe, but I figure I can freeze the rest and enjoy it later on when I need the extra warmth.
Speaking of comforting, I also enjoyed a slice of my dad’s apple cake, which still tasted mighty fine.
We watched Alice before bed, which I loved. For some reason my Netflix movies have been arriving on their own schedule… maybe it’s the snow?
I’m off to get the day started. Click here to find the winner of the iHerb giveaway!
That bowl of kashi looks really yummy! I still am dying to try me some
I have had runners knee and as much as i didnt like it I had to take some time off for about a month or so and I did strength training on my lower body which seemed to help a lot. It doesnt really both me much anymore.
Aww I’m sorry about your knee! Do not get discouraged, knee pain is definitely treatable, particularly when you take measures early. Try icing it and definitely see a sports doctor if it doesn’t improve within the next few days since he or she can give you exercises to strengthen it.
Yum, I’m still drooling over that apple cake! Have a great day girlie:)
Well clearly Ari enjoys running more than Mark who has not put on sneakers since the race.
Pain – I am lucky that I don’t have any long-term injuries, but I think like you said there’s discomfort and pain. I think it’s important not to run through pain and make something worse or do some permanent damage. I ran my second half with hip … discomfort I guess. I ran it because the feeling was not any worse than it was when walking. Probably dumb, but I am okay now.
Follow Ada’s advice and rest it for a few days and then see. Three weeks is plenty of time to get all better & strong.
Sorry to hear about your knee. I don’t know about running injuries, but pain isn’t a good sign- are you still seeing the physio/doctor? Working out through pain isn’t a good idea IMO. It’s your body’s way of telling you something, but don’t be discouraged. Catching it early is a great sign that it is treatable…
Enjoy your Monday!
Don’t push it!!! It’s not worth risking permanent damage to your knees (and never running again) just for one race. Could you see a doctor about it?
I got my Kashi sample in the mail this weekend too
Kashi Warm Cinnamon is one of my faves!!!!!!!!!!!
Im glad you had a good run girl : )
THe salmon salad looks amazing, love salmon leftovers : )
And your dad is just amazing, the apple pie he made looks so good!!!! How cool your dad is such an amazing cook!!!
Love ya!!! xoxo
oh, katie, i’m so sorry about the knee pain. i’m pretty sure knee has become my least favorite word in the english language. i wish i had good advice for you, but of course i’m still in the year-long and counting process of figuring out my own knee issues.
i do think there is a distinction between discomfort and actual pain – if it was just discomfort, i would probably say go for the race, it’s only 3 weeks away. but if it’s bad enough to bring tears to your eyes…i don’t know.
did your pt give you any exercises to strengthen and stretch your glutes? i found that it wasn’t just about strengthening my quads, but all the muscles that support my knees. this is a decent video of the clamshell exercise that my pt gave me specifically for runners:
http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xauyix_corretive-exercise-clamshell-tip-fo_school
i used to repeat it with my legs bent at 15 degrees, 45 degrees and 90 degrees to mimic the different positions when you run. yoga has also done amazing things for me in strengthening those muscles.
looks like our drink tomorrow might be coming at the perfect time – a cocktail is always good for easing frustration, i think.
Doesn’t sound like anything you should try to run through. Tears to the eyes sounds more serious. Give it a rest, elevate/Aleve/ice, and find a doc.
SRL
Sorry your knee is giving you trouble!! Obviously I know nothing about that, but I hope it gets better soon.
I’ve been trying to find faro forever, too, but no luck! And I can’t wait until I can try that Kashi cereal. I’m getting really impatient.
<3 <3
Hi! this is kinda awkward but i’ve been reading your blog for the past couple weeks, browsing for good recipes- i really love some of your breakfast ideas
anyways i used to run competitively in high school and college, and i have a couple suggestions for the running:
1.) how is your form? there should be a distinction between running (smooth strides, fully lifting your feet, landing each step and pushing off with the ball of your foot rather than the middle or heel)and the point where you’re trying to get mileage in. Form is a HUGE part of staying injury free, and if you get to the point where you’re shuffling or dragging to try and get through, STOP.
2.) stay steady: this ties in with #1. i know you’re running from a set plan, but from my experience it’s much better to increase gradually, with fairly consistent mileage. it works SO much better to run 3 miles every day, then maybe 4 or 5 for a long day, than running 2 miles avg. and 6 or 7 for a long day. after a few weeks you should be stronger and able to increase to 4 miles on average, with a 6 or 7 long run. You should be able to run SMOOTHLY during the entire run- when you’re form starts to break, you should slow down, and if that doesn’t work, try to make your shorter runs a little faster to build up endurance.
3.) check the soles of your shoes: if there’s excessive wear on the sides, heel, or anywhere other than where the ball of your foot would rest, then you need to A.) go to a running shoe store and see if they have any advice (some shoes are better for different running types, ex. a stability based shoe for those who overpronate)
B.) work to fix your form- it might be something as simple as lengthening your stride.
4.) Find a physical therapist/someone specifically for running rather than a normal doctor: every single time i’ve met with a normal doctor they’ve either given me textbook advice (stuff you could google) or they’ve given be bad advice (one doctor lengthened a simple injury, another suggested that i give up running for longer than a month, when all i needed was some tape)
5.) AVOID TREADMILLS- these kill form, and the only times i’ve ever been injured it was because of running on treadmills or increasing mileage too quickly.
I kind of hate how much people emphasize distance running as “just getting through” with a large amount of mileage. It’s so much better to gradually build up mileage, racing at distances that suit your current level of running comfort. The point of racing used to be pushing yourself to go faster, not longer….AND that just turned into a rant…sorry
hopefully everything works out
I’m so sorry about your run! But, as with any training program, it is ok to rest when you are hurting. It is better to rest than to get injured! I’m not sure why you would be experiencing those knee pains, but I can totally understand why you would be so frustrated! I think other people’s adive on here is great – definitely try icing it!
What half marathon are you doing?? I’m doing the NYC half on March 21st, any chance that is the same one you are doing??
I have been dreaming of that apple cake. Sorry about the knee. Listen to the pain and remember that you only get one set of knees (think of Geo).
Congrats to Ari on the longest run yet! Sorry about the knee pain – I’m a little bit of a freak when it comes to knee pain in that I stop dead in my tracks the moment it starts to shoot pain. Don’t want to mess with my knees! That stew looks incredible – LOVE the addition of asiago
So sorry about your run but I definitely don’t advise running through knee pain! I have permanently damaged my knee this and I wish I could go back and do it again!
Your dinner looks great! I hope you have a good Monday.
pain whilst training is SO frustrating! here’s to hoping it will heal itself by the half… at least your eats for the day looked delish.
Going to a coffee shop is always the perfect motivation to actually get some work done. That apple cake looks amazing!
ah, i’m sorry to hear about your knee hun!
i had knee pain start only a week before my 1/2 marathon at the end of january and didn’t know what to do. i basically stayed off of it that entire week and took the race at a more leisure pace and if my knee hurt, i would stop. pushing past pain like that is never good and can only lead to longer and even worse problems in the future. i suggest taking some time off, making sure to ice, massage and ice massage (freeze water in dixie cups and use them to massage your knee) and not do any sort of knee bearing exercises. sounds hard and sucks, but it does pay off. i haven’t been running much since my injury and a month later it’s feeling great!
first of all, im just impressed that you did ANY running. i am lacking in all motivation. but im not really too sad about it. i know the time will come again when ill be stoked about running, so ill just wait til the mood strikes.
oh, and im also very curious about the beef gardein skewers. i can do the other faux meats, but im not sure i can do beef. mostly bc i just never ate it even before i was veg or vegan. anyways, i have the other alice (that just came out a month or so ago on syfy) saved on my tivo…must get on that. i was (am) ridic obsessed with the entire alice genre. i designed a twisted freaky Cheshire cat tattoo for one of my friends in college and he got it done on his arm.
ok, random comment over. have a good monday katie!
sorry about the knee! could it be ITBS? or PFPS?
What makes chocolate milk and caffeine a good recovery snack? I’ve read that before. That’s a good motivation for me–I’ll gladly do a long run if it means it can justify a mocha treat
http://www.firednfabulous.blogspot.com/
Aw, what a bummer about your knee! I hope it heals quickly & you’re back to running in no time!
Those Clif Bloks sound delicious! I LOVE those pretzel crisps! YUM!
ahh sorry about your knee girl!!! it would def be smart to rest it for a few days
i am SO JELOUS of your apple pie!! YUMMMMMMMMM!
your pasta dish looks great!
pretzels and hummus are seriously crack together
Hope your knee is feeling better!
When I was training for the Orlando Half-Marathon in December, I felt like everything went wrong. Six weeks before the race I got horrible blisters after a 6 mile run. I should have stopped when I felt some pain but I didn’t, and so I ended up with terrible blisters that prevented me from running(and even walking) for over a week! Then, about 2 weeks before the race while running I started getting a shooting pain on my hip area! But, that time I stopped and didn’t it. Don’t push yourself if its a shooting pain, rest and ice it to see if it gets better. You don’t want to get injured training. Don’t get discouraged
I totally know the feeling sister. Take care of your knee and run when you can but you don’t want to have a serious injury so be sure to ice, stretch, heat, and do whatever it takes to keep it strong and happy.
Ick–I hate knee pain. I am really bad about running through pain–I just love to run and want to keep on going! Anyway, when I have knee pain, I recommend icing it with some frozen veggies (or fruit in my case–I always have some on hand for smoothies…) and taking a Tylenol/Aleve before running. I hope the pain subsides soon!
omgosh that stew looks so good. I love one pot dishes. Did you use less water in yours or drain the beans? I was looking at the original recipe and it looked more soupy that yours. I think I’m going to make this one tomorrow
Hey there,
So, just like another commenter, tinabear, I’m also new to your blog and have never posted a comment before. Hi! Your food creations are super inspiring. While I am not a vegetarian, I try not to eat meat very often for ecological/sustainability reasons (and when I do, I do my best to make sure it is local and humanely, organically raised) so I am always looking for great whole foods vegetarian meals and snacks that balance protein, carbs and fat. You do a great job of that!
I wanted to second everything tinabear said and also mention that you should do some research on ITBS, Iliotibial Band Syndrome (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iliotibial_band_syndrome for some brief info). Two years ago I was training for my first full marathon and halfway through training got struck with what sounds like similar symptoms as yours. I too thought it might be runner’s knee but went to see a physical therapist who diagnosed it as ITBS. She was able to give me some strengthening exercises and also did some massage therapy, as well as ultrasound and laser therapies. I was unfortunately not fully recovered by race day but ran anyways, and while I’m glad I did, I still have some issues with my IT band to this day. So, moral of the story, get yourself checked out and taken care of and be kind to your body. I know firsthand what emotions you are going through, thinking about how hard you have been training up to now and what it might be like if you don’t get to do the race. Try not to think about the race too much at this point, just focus on your body and do what you can of your training program but don’t push it. I backed off on my training program when my knee issues hit and while the longest run I had ever done pre-marathon was only 15 miles I still made it through the whole race. Hang in there!
quaker oatmeal squares are CRACK!CRACK!
girl, i bet your teeth are JUST as white!
Oh gosh, I am so sorry to hear about your knee issues. I wish I could contribute something constructive but I’ve actually never had any problems with mine (knock on wood). I’m crossing my fingers that you’ll be able to run your race pain-free!
Mmmm, apple cake sounds great!!!!!
what a cute little box the heart to heart cereal came in!!! Honestly, what looks better is that pretzel and hummus snack you set up there…ohhhh man…yumm…OH!! And the apple cake!!! I heart fruit cakes.
“dad’s apple cake, which still tasted mighty fine.”–yes, i’d say it looks faboooosh!
the pain. ok girl there are two schools of thought.
1. you are a woman, you are made to birth babies, no amount of knee pain is more than natural childbirth (Ive done both) and just mind over matter it, and trudge on. In the name of the race. THis is not normal training advice, just for the race day only.
2. You’re in pain b/c something is clearly WRONG internally and you should listen to your body and stop, quit, do not press on b/c you could be doing real damage/injuring yourself.
Only you know where that line in the sand is.
xxoo
aww injuries are SO frustrating! i hurt my hip during my first ever race because i over trained and didn’t take care of myself! so definitely mind your peas and q’s and take care of your body
you’re english muffin looks SO GOOOOOD!!!! i so want one now!
feel better and cheer up girl! you know you’ll kick boot-ay
oh honey dear…i am so sorry about your knee pain! i am no doctor and can’t say what it is, but i know that when i had some knee issues earlier, i did wall sits, and they helped strengthen both my legs and knees so much.
i would also like one of everything here. that breakfast is one of my fave classics, and i LOVE the kashi heart to heart warm cinnamon. although, i like anything with cinnamon pretty much.
hang in there girl, and if i think of any other knee exercises, i will let you know! and let’s gchat soon please
Sorry to hear about the knee! My knee and hip joints ache and hurt a lot when I run. I don’t know what the problem is. I would love to be able to run more, but I am afraid that I will just be in pain. I hope you figure out what is wrong and find a way to make it better!
Aww Katie, i’m so sorry about the knee pain!! That’s the worst. Hopefully it’ll go away after a little quad training
But i’m all over those everything pretzels slims with the hummus. That is my favorite snack! They taste great with salsa too! And that breakfast looks fabbb. Oh my gosh its been too long since i’ve had an english muffin! Why my sorority house won’t stock whole wheat ones is beyond me! I’ll totally eat the white bread here if i gotta (white flour tortillas, white pita bread, etc…) but whole wheat english muffins are just the best!
Ps I’ll have you know that i’m currently snacking on some pretzels, dried mango and almond butter! Pure bliss. It made me think of you!! Have a great night! XOXO
SO sorry about your running pain.
I can sympathize. I hope you get it figured out. Maybe start with a knee sleeve?
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