The “30 miles in 30 days” challenge is officially underway, and I’m excited to update you on my progress! If you remember, I signed up for this challenge as a way to stay active and focused.
But, like most things in life, it hasn’t been a smooth ride, and it’s been a mix of highs, lows, and a few unexpected twists!
How Did Knee Trouble Affect My Challenge?
First off, let’s talk about the setback: knee trouble. It’s been a constant challenge this month, but taking the time to listen to my body has made all the difference.
At first, it was frustrating not being able to run, but by resting my knee and opting for low-impact activities, I’ve been able to manage the pain and still get my miles in. The advice from my fellow runners, like Rekita saying “let those knees rest,” turned out to be exactly what I needed.
Why I Didn’t Let the Setback Stop Me
Despite the knee pain, I still managed to get moving! I swapped running for walking and even tried some cycling.
The key takeaway here is that fitness isn’t about perfection—sometimes it’s just about staying consistent, no matter the pace. I discovered that, even if I couldn’t run, I could still stay active and hit my mileage goal by keeping things flexible.
It’s a huge part of “Being All The Way Strong”—adjusting your plan but still pushing forward.
Saturday’s Big Win: A 5K Race!
Finally, after two weeks of limited running, I did my first race in nearly a month! It was a 5K event, and I signed up with a friend. Panic set in before the race—I hadn’t run in so long, and the nerves were real.
But, much to my relief, everything went great! I even PR’d (personal record) on the course! The 5K felt like a victory in more ways than one. It was my chance to bounce back, and I did it!
Why Scenic Trails Make Running Easier
But the fun didn’t stop there. After the race, my friend and I hit the trails again for a scenic terrain run. Let me tell you, it was brutal in the best way possible. Temperatures soared into the 90s, the trail was rocky, and we faced roots, fallen trees, and obstacles along the way.
But there’s something magical about nature that makes everything more bearable. Plus, the beauty of the landscape made every step worth it.
For me, it was a powerful reminder that fitness doesn’t have to be in a gym—it’s about making movement part of my day. I’m excited to tackle that trail more in the coming weeks!
My Favorite Gear: KT Tape & Knee Strap
I wouldn’t have made it through the month without my trusty KT Tape and knee strap. These two items were absolute game-changers.
They gave me the extra support I needed to continue with the challenge while minimizing the discomfort from my knee. The moral of the story? Invest in what helps you—whether it’s gear, rest, or a solid recovery plan.
How to Handle Setbacks and Keep Moving Forward
Life gets in the way. Whether it’s an injury or just a busy schedule, you don’t always get to do everything you plan. But that doesn’t mean you should give up on your fitness goals. Here’s how I’m handling it:
- Listen to your body: When something hurts, rest it. Don’t push through pain—it’s okay to adjust your plans to stay healthy.
- Embrace flexibility: Fitness is about consistency, not perfection. Take a walk, ride a bike, or try another activity. It all counts.
- Celebrate small wins: Every time you push yourself—whether it’s a 5K or a walk around the block—celebrate the effort.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if I get injured during my fitness challenge?
First and foremost, rest is important. I learned the hard way that pushing through pain can lead to longer setbacks. Take care of the injury with ice, elevation, and compression. Consult a doctor if needed, but listen to your body!
2. Can I still hit my fitness goals without running?
Absolutely! Fitness doesn’t just mean running. Walking, cycling, or even yoga are all excellent ways to stay active and work toward your goals. Flexibility is key to making it work.
3. How do I stay motivated when things aren’t going as planned?
Motivation comes from progress, no matter how small. Setbacks are part of the journey—just keep showing up, even if it’s at a slower pace.
So, What’s Next?
The biggest takeaway from my 30 miles in 30 days update is that persistence matters more than perfection.
Whether it’s a race, a trail, or a simple walk, every step counts. Fitness is a marathon, not a sprint, and I’m committed to continuing my journey—even when things don’t go according to plan.
I’m excited to keep tackling this challenge and embracing all the new running routes along the way. But this time, I’m not just focused on the miles—I’m enjoying the process, the scenery, and the strength I’m building along the way.
