Trail Tales and Taming the Perimenopause Beast
Hey fellow runners, especially those of you navigating the glorious, chaotic mess that is your 40s! Let’s be real, running isn’t always sunshine and PB’s. Sometimes, it’s a battle against our own bodies, a test of mental fortitude, and a whole lot of “WTF is happening?!” moments.
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably experienced a shift in your running game. Maybe it started subtly, a little less speed, a little more fatigue. Or maybe, like me, it was a full-blown, “My body has betrayed me!” situation.
My journey started with a lingering post-COVID fog that stole my breath and zapped my energy. Then came the hormonal rollercoaster of perimenopause, a ride I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. Add in work stress and medication-induced weight gain, and suddenly, my once-reliable legs felt like they were made of concrete.
Remember that feeling of effortless speed, the joy of pushing your limits? Yeah, that felt like a distant memory. I tried all the “right” things: strength training, zone 2 cardio, and macro tracking. My doctor? Well, let’s just say their advice was less than helpful. “It’s just perimenopause,” they said as if that explained everything.
Frankly, I was losing hope. The fire, the drive, the sheer need to run, was dimming.
Then, a flicker of light! I found a running event that sparked my interest, a chance to rediscover that old joy. But, of course, life had other plans, and it was cancelled. Cue the dramatic sigh.
But here’s the thing about runners: we’re resilient. We dust ourselves off and keep moving. And so, I found two trail events, one in July and one in August. Two opportunities to reclaim my strength, to prove that I’m not done yet.
Why Trails?
For me, trails offer a different kind of challenge, a different kind of joy. It’s not about chasing pace; it’s about connecting with nature, navigating uneven terrain, and discovering the strength you didn’t know you had. And honestly, right now, I need that. I need the escape, the challenge, the reminder that my body is capable of amazing things, even when it feels like it’s betraying me.
What I’ve Learned (So Far):
- Perimenopause is a wild card: Don’t let anyone dismiss your symptoms. Find a doctor who listens and understands.
- Listen to your body: Some days will be good, some days will be tough. Adjust your training accordingly.
- Find your joy: Whether it’s trails, roads, or a treadmill, find what makes you excited to run.
- Celebrate the small wins: Every mile, every workout, every step forward is a victory.
- You are not alone: We’re all in this together, navigating the challenges and celebrating the triumphs.
My Challenge to You:
If you’re feeling lost, discouraged, or just plain frustrated with your running, I get it. But don’t give up. Find your spark, set a goal, and take that first step.
Maybe it’s a 5k, a trail run, or just a walk in the park. Whatever it is, do it for you. Reclaim your strength, rediscover your joy, and remind yourself that you are a runner, and you are capable of amazing things.
Let’s share our stories, our struggles, and our triumphs. Because together, we can conquer any challenge, even the perimenopause beast.
- What are your running goals?
- What challenges are you facing?
- Share your stories in the comments below! Let’s support each other on this incredible journey.