6 Things to Do While Injured

We have all probably been injured at one point or another in our lives. Some of us injured for longer than others, and even some chronically injured. We all know it SUCKS, especially when you’re feeling motivated, or strong, a little nag turns a throbbing pain, not being able to run to finding out you have a labrum tear, stress fracture, hamstring strain or chronic knee problems. I’ve had my fair share of injuries and have found some things that prevent future injuries and things to do while you’re injured.

1. STRENGTH TRAINING AND STRETCHING!
   -I remember religiously stretching in high school and my coach saying, “once you get to college, you’ll probably never stretch!” I remember being, “I’m going to make sure I stretch!” She was right, I never stretched, and barely, rarely stretch nowadays. Along with not stretching, I don’t strength train, a lot of my PT now and with my hamstring strain strengthens the muscles and the muscles around it. So now that I can’t run, I make sure I am strengthening the muscle, icing or heating it, and stretching with approval from my PT and doctor.
2. JOURNAL
   --I don’t know about you guys, but I try and journal everything! On my Lily Pultizer planner, Believe I Am journal and my Racin’ Grayson journal as well (can you tell I love journaling?). I’ ve been documenting mostly my pain level out of 1-10, what I did that day (if I did anything) and how I am feeling. For instance, today, I journaled about my PT appointment. So my hip and lower back are so irritated, and so I am. It’s better to let your feelings out, write them down rather than bottling them in.
3. FIND A NEW HOBBY!
   -Lately, I have been reading a lot more because I have so much more time! Currently reading Over the Top by Jonathan Van Ness, and will start reading The Happy Runner by the Roches’. Use this as a time to start:
   1. 1. being more creative with arts and crafts
      2. knitting
      3. baking
      4. crocheting,
      5. try a free trial from Classpass and try Barre
      6. swimming, aqua jogging
      7. rock climbing
      8. Solidcore
      9. New spin class, my favorite is Chestnut Hill Cycle Fitness (they do spinning, and Barre!)
4. GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY
   --Running gives you endorphins and makes you happy, and without them, I feel like I need something to get me smiling. For me, I love giving back and helping people. Volunteer at a local dog shelter, a food bank, even a race, donate to a particular cause that means something to you.
5. GROW PROFESSIONALLY: GET MORE INVOLVED IN YOUR JOB, UPDATE YOUR RESUME OR GET A SECOND JOB!
   -I need to be busy; all the time, I always need something to do and get antsy, especially when I am not running. I’ve updated my resume and see what committees I can get involved in. Finding a second gig, like at a local running store, is a great fun way to earn some money. Since I’ve had more time on my hands, I’ve decided to start helping out at Philadelphia Runner KOP!
6. BE PATIENT.
   --Don’t rush back into it. If you’re still feeling pain, you shouldn’t be running! Give your body some time to heal. Use this time to rest, nap, respect and get your body back to tip top shape so you can keep chasing your dreams!

*My Injured Pout Face*