Return To Running

by Antonio Vega on December 21, 2011

I am finally back running almost every day.  The simple act of  being able to lace up my shoes, walk out the door and go for a run has been something I really missed. Still, it's only been a month since my hip surgery and I have had to force myself to progress slowly allow my body to get used to running again. Needless to say, holding myself back has been a challenge as I am so ready to get back into training.

I've had a great training partner the last few weeks---my eight-year-old Lab, Molly. Our first few runs together were humbling, as she would sprint ahead of me on the trails and lay down while waiting for me. When I would finally catch up, she would give me a look that said, “What’s taking you so long, Antonio?”

That was close to three weeks ago and now I can say that my fitness has improved so much that Molly can no longer keep up with me.

With each passing week I run a little farther and a bit faster. I am eagerly anticipating the week when I can start training with my Team USA Minnesota teammates again and start to get ready for racing. 

Here is a photo of Molly after an early morning run jaunt, proudly sporting her Mizuno training gear.