Half Way

Ok well, its been two weeks since I posted.  After my run on June 26 I started to have some pain in my knee and over the next week I learned that I probably have IT band syndrome.

"Iliotibial Band Syndrome is one of the leading causes of lateral knee pain in runners. The iliotibial band is a superficial thickening of tissue on the outside of the thigh, extending from the outside of the pelvis, over the hip and knee, and inserting just below the knee. The band is crucial to stabilizing the knee during running, moving from behind the femur to the front during the ga itcycle. The continual rubbing of the band over the lateral femoral epicondyle, combined with the repeated flexion and extension of the knee during running may cause the area to become inflamed." 

This is not the end of the world but it has made my running life a bit more difficult. I have to do some horribly painful stretches as well as some strengthening exercises. I am going to go see a doctor when I go how in a week too. I took it easy during the week and then on July 3 I ran a slower 10 miles.

I got to Idaho this week and have enjoyed running here. It is beautiful to run past all of the fields of wheat, alfalfa, and potatoes. I love it! Today I had a great run. I ran from my bothers house up to the temple in Rexburg for a total of 13.1 miles! It was great- my knee didn't give me too much trouble either.  I stopped and stretched it out a couple times and it slowed me down a bit but I ran a 11:50 m/m pace. So, considering I feel good about it. I actually felt great other than my knee, tired, but good. As long as my knee doesn't slow me down too much I will be able to deal with it.  The following pics are examples of why I love Idaho and why I love running here.