Running... I used to love running, the endorphins, the runners high, the time to think and unwind, the “awesome” feeling after a run.
My Story
I ran a marathon a few years ago, my marriage had just ended and I needed something other than the breakup to concentrate on, so I decided to run a marathon. At the time, I was also managing a large gym, instructing group fitness classes and trying to get my own training in. My body was tired and stressed, and I was mentally and physically exhausted. But I had committed to the marathon, so I kept at it. There’s nothing like a whole lot of gym members and staff knowing the boss is running a marathon, to keep you motivated. I had a training plan, but most of the training I was supposed to do didn’t happen. I ran the marathon anyway, and I was on target until the last 15 k’s. I was in agony as my IT bands became so tight I couldn’t run downhill without terrible pain. So, I had to walk the downhills (who does that??). I made it to the finish line, but not in the time I expected.
I loved running before that marathon, and would run for enjoyment most days. After “having” to train it had become a chore. I then got sick for a couple of years and stopped running. Excessive exercise actually causes your body stress, resulting in increased cortisol levels. And when your adrenal glands pump out too much cortisol from physical stress like exercise, as well as emotional and mental stress, they become exhausted. This can lead to adrenal fatigue, as in my case.
Adrenal Fatigue
Some of the symptoms of adrenal fatigue include constant exhaustion and difficulty dragging yourself out of bed, depression, ordinary life stresses seem like big problems, brain fog and memory problems, excess weight around the midsection, sweet cravings and high levels of inflammation in the body. One of the best treatments for adrenal fatigue is rest, which is hard to get if you’re training for a marathon.
Walk or Run?
Now, I walk, a morning walk of 50 minutes has become part of my daily routine, and I find it easier to get yourself out of bed if you are going for a walk then a run. You can rug up in winter and really enjoy your surroundings much more than on a run. It has done wonders for my health, my weight, my state of mind and my healing.
I have given up running for now, but never say never. Running can be good for the soul and if you love running and it brings joy to your life without hurting your body, then keep doing it. But, if you are really forcing yourself to run and you aren’t enjoying it, maybe give walking a try. You don’t need to exhaust your body to get great results. Make sure you listen to your body. Getting movement into your day and enjoying what you do are the main things. Your body knows what you need. Walking can get you many of the same health benefits as running.
To add to your walking or running schedule try the stretch, yoga, core, strength and pilates workouts in the
Online Gym, plus we have everything else you need to get in great shape for life.
