YOUdaMOM.com

I’m pretty sure this is the longest stretch of least running I’ve mileaged since my teenage years. YES, I’ve been a runner for quite some time now. I’ll run in almost any weather, season, or time of year.

In October 2025 I fell on a sidewalk and twisted my knee to one side while it did a full bend and my body went down. No Bueno. Basically by the end of the day I couldn’t bend my knee… and that lasted a solid few days. A few days latter I could run with a wobble – so that gave me hope I was getting better… but nope. Fast-forward to January 2026 and I still can’t bend my knee fully nor walk down stairs without pain.

Time for treatment. I decide to fully invest in low impact activity – no more running. No more stair climbing (that bugs my knee too). No more trail running. For now.

I started with PT and a referral to an Orthopidic. I also got my first ever yoga studio membership so I can do yoga a few times a week. I’m stretching more. I’m resting more. I’m moving less – ugh! No workout is as effective as running and knee friendly.

I miss running.

The good news? First, I’ve learned tons of calmness and stillness that comes with yoga. Second, I feel like less of an endorphine junkie – running IS addicting and feels great. And lastly – I’ve discovered walking as a satiating alternative. Up hill walking (on the treadmill) and speed walking (at a swing your arms speed) has been wonderful. Frustrating st first because of how slow the miles would pass… but if I set time goals or add speed or elevation – I feel like I catch a sweet zen out of the workout and break a good enough sweat.

Mostly the part of running I missed the most was heading out with friends and feeling invincible. I’m mostly settled thru year 40 and this just may be my new “normal” for activity – adapting to new highs and new lows. My amazing friend met me for a 5 mile snowshoe today and that gave me hope that I’m on the path to being put back together- not broken. Another tip: still meet up with your adventure and running friends.

I hope this helps someone else in recovery from a running injury. Zen on!