on the trails...running on them.
Trail running is something I always wanted to do because I see other people doing it. If they can do it, why can't I?
I ran at Crystal Cove State Park this morning. My first actual run since my back injury.
I was concerned since I still have the sciatica. How will my legs and back hold up?
I took my first steps up No Dogs. All uphill. Went to Overlook Point and turned around and started the downhill trek. Going downhill was a major concern since my legs could slip out from under me or my legs would collapse. No problems.
I made it to the parking lot and decided to push myself a little further by going down to El Moro Canyon and then up BFI to the wooden sign and turn around. From the wooden bridge to the top, I had to walk. Just too steep a grade to maintain a running pace. Coming back down BFI, I could feel my legs starting to "tighten up" so that was the cue to return to the parking lot..."you're done for the day."
I never stopped the entire way except to turn around and take it all in for just a few seconds.
My GPS registered 3.77 miles and 48:40. Not breakneck speed, but progress nonetheless. I hope to increase the distances one opportunity at a time.
It felt funny not hiking with a 30-pound pack on my back. Legs are a little sore. That's a given. Weakness leaving the body.
