I pressed too hard week 1 of my couch to 5k experience.  So much so that week 2 was a total washout (zilch).  A week and a half after later and I can barely walk.

I truly thought I messed up my back as I felt pain below my knees and tightness in my hamstrings.  The tightness and soreness came and went as I moved around but never went away.

My chiropractor would be able to tell me what was going on, so I paid him a visit.  I went in expecting him to discourage me from running because of my medical history.

“I’m confused,” I said. “My back never felt better.”

“It’s not your back,” he answered.  “If you ran cross country, your cardio and respiratory systems are likely in better shape than your muscles and tendons.  Remember you’re not 20 years old anymore.  Since they’re lagging behind, they’re complaining LOUDLY.”

We chatted more as he checked the alignment of my back and released various pressure points around my knees, back and hips.

“Why are you doing the couch to 5k anyway?”

Here it comes, I thought. Sorry Hasty this one’s on you.

“My pastor asked me to run a 5k with him this fall.  But it’s only a fun run.”

“You should have plenty of time to get ready then.  He’s my advice: focus strictly on walking.  Walk 2 miles around the track.  Work your pace up to 15 minutes per mile.  When you can walk 2 miles in 30 minutes you’ll be ready to try running.  Your muscles and joints should be caught up by then.”

“Thanks, doc!” I said, hearing the best news I could have imagined given my condition.

So walking it is!

(Baby steps)