Question for seasoned runners?????

Question

I'm a runner. I've done 3 years of outdoor track and a year of cross country. I had a REALLY tough track season this past year and it really messed with my state competition to the point I placed 9th and 10th in my races(bad I know). I've called my coach and told him that I'm not going to be able to run XC this year. I've kinda lost my motivation to run and don't think I'll be able to good for the team. The problem is I want to run and compete. I can push myself fine, my bf and I run and it really pushes me to keep up and get better, but I feel kinda lost w/o this. Do you guys think that this will make me want to run again? And me want to go back to track? Your thoughts on this would be nice. Thanks! Sorry this was so long!!!

Answer 1

Almost exactly a year ago I was in your shoes.  I had run a phenomenal indoor season placing fourth individually at the state meet in the 400 and winning both states and nationals with my DMR team and carried my performances all the way through the outdoor season.  A few late and untimely injuries set me back before Penn Relays and then again I got sick at Districts and only made it to states in 1 event when I should have been running 4 at the very least.  I had spent my whole season carrying my team only to fail in the end.  I quit track all-together and didn't pursue it into college.  I miss it now more than if I had lost my sight or hearing.  I would give up almost anything to go back and have a second chance to continue.  Sorry for the rant, but I want you to understand that if you truly love this as I did do not wait until it's too late to realize that this is who you are and where you are meant to be.  These set backs are what define champions, you must be able to fight through the tough times and prevail.  Don't make the same mistake I did.

Answer 2

I would definitely suggest continuing cross country; practices can be brutal, i know first hand. but if you're not participating in an indoor track and its just cross country and outdoor, then its probably because of your training (or maybe lack thereof) in your off season. it can be hard to find a good balance, not overworking your body but not taking a large unnecessary break. maybe get a trainer for that season. also, work your abs to a crazy extent. strong abs means a stronger runner :]