The Frustration of Running Burnout and the Path to Recover

There's nothing quite as disheartening as being sidelined by an injury while everyone else seems to be out enjoying their runs. I know this feeling all too well - a few years ago, I endured a lengthy stretch of bouncing between niggling pains and full-blown injuries, with only brief, often uncomfortable running spells in between.

The frustration was unbearable. I had thought I was doing everything right - religiously following my training plan, stretching diligently, foam rolling regularly, and even drinking the recommended chocolate milk after my runs. Yet, something clearly wasn't working. I found myself utterly exhausted after long runs (and if I'm honest, most of my medium ones too). I tried to convince myself that this was simply part of training for a race. After all, running is supposed to be challenging, right?

Here's the truth: The majority of the generic training plans are designed to cater to young, often male, college-age runners¹. This bias can lead to training plans that may not suit a huge section of the population. It's no wonder so many of us ditch a plan halfway or get injured or burnt out trying to keep up!

As a passionate runner, you might believe that pushing harder and running more miles is the only way to improve. "No pain, no gain" becomes your mantra, and rest days feel like weakness. Treating every run like a test of willpower, ignoring your body's signals and pushing through early warning signs of injury... This approach creates a destructive cycle of intense training followed by forced rest due to injury. Your body never gets the chance to build a strong foundation, and you spend more time recovering from injuries than making actual progress.

This ultimately means that despite your dedication and hard work, you're stuck in a frustrating loop of one step forward, two steps back – watching your goals slip away while dealing with recurring injuries and constant frustration.

But what if it didn't have to be this way?

Here's a real life example: I was trying to train for a marathon but couldn't run more than two weeks without pain or tiredness forcing me to stop. I didn’t get to the start line on 2 occasions! But, after finally realising I needed to listen to my own body, and began implementing a more strategic and adaptable approach to training, not only did I complete the marathon injury-free, but I enjoyed the entire training process and achieved a personal best. 

Most importantly, I'm still running strong over a year later, something I've never achieved before.

I believe in creating a holistic approach that respects both your body and lifestyle. Your running journey should be built on solid fundamentals: consistent training, strength work, and recovery. By working with your body and aligning training with your life commitments, running can become an energising part of your lifestyle rather than a constant struggle.

Consider ditching that one-size-fits-nobody training plan and visualise what could be possible.

You might want to :

- Run more consistently than ever before

- Finally break through performance plateaus

- Train without the constant fear of injury

- Feel energised rather than exhausted after runs

- Balance running with work, family, and other life commitments

- Trust your body's signals and respond appropriately

- Actually enjoy your running journey again!

If this sounds like a great idea, let's talk! All consultation calls are free. I offer both group coaching through Runner Reboot and 1:1 coaching, so you can choose the option that best fits your needs and preferences.

¹ Reference: Crossing the Golden Training Divide: The Science and Practice of Training World-Class 800- and 1500-m Runners | Sports Medicine