On February 18th, 2023, it felt like just another ordinary training day. I had a 6-mile progression run on the agenda, and due to a fierce snowstorm in Vermont, I completed it on a treadmill. This date was significant, marking the halfway point of my 16-week marathon block. I had poured so much dedication into my training and was eagerly looking forward to seeing the results.
The Journey to Peak Performance
Reflecting on my training journey up to that point, I recalled the intense workouts and long runs in Richmond, VT, with my running partners. Together, we pushed our limits and shared our goals, which contributed to what I firmly believe was the best shape of my life. Based on my training, I estimated that I could finish the marathon in 2:38:00. Everything seemed to be going according to plan.
The Unexpected Turn
However, despite meticulous preparation and everything seemingly going right, life had other plans. I developed a sacral stress fracture. An MRI revealed more issues, but as healthcare providers often say, “Does the MRI findings align with the patient’s subjective and physical assessment?” Unfortunately, in my case, they did.
Murphy’s Law states that anything that can go wrong will go wrong, and it certainly felt true for me. If there is a possibility of several things going wrong, the one that causes the most damage will be the one to go wrong. And of course, if there’s a worse time for something to go wrong, it will happen then.
A Time of Reflection and Change
As I write this blog, reflecting back some 14 months later, I recognize that my identity and body has changed. My running achievements, once a source of pride and confidence, have faded into memories. My body, once a finely-tuned machine, now feels different. The running companions and partnerships I was part of have fizzled out.
The biggest change, however, has been internal. My confidence in my body has waned, but I’ve also learned to appreciate my health and physical capabilities more deeply. We often take peak performance for granted, only realizing its value when it’s no longer attainable.
Embracing Gratitude and Moving Forward
As I reintegrate into endurance sports, I remind myself of the past 10-14 months when I couldn’t perform at my best. Every activity I can do now is more than I could do during that challenging period. Each day is a new opportunity, and for every physical activity I’m able to perform, I am grateful.
The journey has taught me to appreciate my body as a vehicle for life, not just for sport. While my running may not be at the level it once was, my appreciation for the ability to run, move, and be active is greater than ever.
Conclusion
February 18th, 2023, was more than just a training day; it was a pivotal point in my marathon journey and a significant lesson in resilience and gratitude. Despite setbacks and changes, I’ve learned to cherish my health and the capabilities of my body. As I continue to recover and reintegrate into endurance sports, I carry with me the lessons of the past months, appreciating each step and every run as a gift.
Here’s to the journey ahead, embracing every moment of health and activity with gratitude and joy.
Cheers
-Hunter