Accepting the Runner You Are (Right Now)

After another frustrating run a few weeks ago, I opened my notes app and typed:

It felt like admitting defeat. But it turned out to be the first real step forward.

What happened?

After my fast pack trip, I picked up an injury. Then came vacation and before I knew it, almost four weeks had passed without real training.

No wonder running felt hard and frustrating. I had lost fitness, strength, and momentum.

In the past, I would’ve tried to force my way back. I’d jump straight into sessions that felt just out of reach, run a bit too hard, and convince myself I still had the fitness I’d built months before.

But that never worked. It usually led to frustration, disappointment, or even more injury.

Doing things differently this time

This time, with some reluctance, I accepted where I truly was, not where I wished I was.

I made running a priority again:

• Less alcohol

• No late coffees

• Prioritizing sleep so I could run before work

I rebuilt slowly:

• Slowed down to stay in the right heart rate zones

• Reduced reps and pace in workouts

• Gradually added more reps and faster sessions as my body adapted

And it worked.

The result?

In just six weeks, I’ve found new momentum.
My fitness, resilience, and durability are coming back.

My long runs are back up to 18 km.
My speed sessions are almost as fast as they’ve ever been.

The real lesson

Accepting the runner you are right now is often the quickest way to get better.

Don’t fight your current reality — use it.
Use your past performances not as a benchmark to beat yourself up, but as fuel to build an even better version of yourself.

Progress starts with honesty, patience, and consistency. And sometimes, it starts with writing a single sentence in your notes app.

If running feels tough for you at the moment, feel free to hit reply and share your story. I’m here to listen and support you.

Thank you for reading.

Tim 👟