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I was extremely fortunate during my elite running career when it came to injuries. Despite punishing my body for a decade by underfueling (sometimes intentionally, sometimes unintentionally) and giving it REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), I really had very few injuries, and only one bone injury, a stress reaction in my tibia.

By the way, if you are injury prone (especially femoral, sacral, or hip fractures), struggle with feeling cold often, have gastrointestinal issues often, struggle with your libido, have no period or low testosterone, and/or struggle to sleep, you may also have (unintentionally) REDs. About a year ago, I made an extensive free resource for YouTube and then a private (still free) section for people in recovery. You may want to check it out below. And yes, REDs doesn't affect just women...

So when I had to get surgery for this injury, I actually didn't feel too bitter about it; I felt like I got away with so much during that period of time.

It also meant that other than the stress reaction and a calf strain, I really didn't go through many extended bouts of cross training (and when I did, I stuck to pool running), which meant, I'll be honest, I judged it, HARD.

I would never pick cross training over running, even if it meant doing the most boring run around a grocery store for an hour, even though there was a better alternative. I was a runner, through and through.

I did strength training, but that was it; everything else I looked down upon.

I have to admit something though; I have really been enjoying this period of cross training. I have biked (indoors and outdoors) a lot, and feel myself getting stronger. Now I am adding in rowing, cycling, and walking (to progress to hiking), and there is a lot of PT daily too.

I have come to a realization during this time; I think the next time my options are boring run around grocery store and Peloton bike workout, I will pick the Peloton. I think this next chapter of Tina's running won't be so judgy towards cross training, will see it as a benefit.

Of course, I currently have no idea how this cross training will translate over to my running once it is time, but for now, it's kinda fun to change it up, and while that is the case, I am gonna keep on going with it.

I didn't think I would ever be excited for a one-hour hike on the trails, but as it comes into view in my near future, I can't wait!

This week on the Running For Real podcast...

Here's the official description:

If you’ve recognized your running self in a raccoon meme, you’ve seen the work of Izzy Seidel. She’s the founder of the Sad Girl Track Club on Instagram and Strava, and a content creator for running brands, a skill she honed during her time in the corporate world. While that may seem like a dream job, it isn’t without its downside.

Here's the real deal:

I have known Izzy for a while, and her story/journey is such a beautiful example of being true to you, no matter how "weird" you think you are. Guaranteed, others will love what makes you you. She is also an amazing example of having the courage to speak to the things that are going wrong or are not feeling good. Toxic positivity is everywhere, and sometimes we feel the most heard when we stop trying to shove it down, and allow ourselves to go through those tough moments...Izzy and Sad Girl Track club are a great example of that.

I heard about something cool recently. If you are in the Boston area (or even within driving distance), you could be a part of something really special:

Climb 4 Climate is a non-profit on a mission to fight climate change. They're holding their inaugural stadium stair-climbing event on August 10th - participants will climb up the concrete seats, 30 rows high, and down the steps in all 37 sections of Harvard Stadium. Following the climb, participants and their families can enjoy the Climb 4 Climate “Festivo,” featuring activities for all ages, including food trucks and music, along with local businesses and climate action exhibitors.

Climber-raised funds will be directed to climate change organizations. Adults need to raise a minimum of $250 to participate, and students ages 13 to 18 must raise a minimum of $150.

I really loved watching this clip from Good Morning America with my friend, J, on the day of the New York Pride Run. What an exciting event that I can't wait to watch grow.

Did you miss J on the podcast earlier this year? Listen here.​

One of my favorite Zen proverbs to keep in mind at all times:

Once upon a time, there was an old farmer who had worked his crops for many years.

One day his horse ran away. Upon hearing the news, his neighbors came to visit. “Such bad luck,” they said sympathetically, “you must be so sad.”

“We’ll see,” the farmer replied.

The next morning the horse returned, bringing with it two other wild horses.

“How wonderful,” the neighbors exclaimed! “Not only did your horse return, but you received two more. What great fortune you have!”

“We’ll see,” answered the farmer.

The following day, his son tried to ride one of the untamed horses, was thrown, and broke his leg. The neighbors again came to offer their sympathy on his misfortune. “Now your son cannot help you with your farming,” they said. “What terrible luck you have!”

“We’ll see,” replied the old farmer.

The following week, military officials came to the village to conscript young men into the army. Seeing that the son’s leg was broken, they passed him by. The neighbors congratulated the farmer on how well things had turned out. “Such great news. You must be so happy!”

The man smiled to himself and said once again.

“We’ll see.”

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Thanks to our partner, Runna

Runna is the #1 rated running coaching app in the world with more than 15,000 five star reviews (Trustpilot, Apple, Playstore). Runna is on a mission to make running as easy, effective and enjoyable as possible through creating personalised running plans for all abilities, ranging from runners at the beginning of their running journeys (yep, those runners on a Couch to 5k program) to elite runners (2:30 marathoners). All plans are built by Olympic athletes and expert coaches, and they do a great job.

I really love that it also includes strength training on there, so you can have everything you need in one place, as well as a built-in community to join you on your journey. There is a reason the TCS NYC Marathon, Cancer Research UK, HOKA, and even Tinder are working with Runna; they are doing important work and building something special.

Besides, they are British, what's not to love? ;)

Get two weeks free with code TINAMUIR.

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Be kind to one another, yourself, and this beautiful planet of ours.

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