Running and sickness

[Emme]

To all the runners out there: I usually run 5k three times a week. I last ran on Tuesday and then I got hit with a horrible case of bronchitis. I could barely hold my head up let alone go outside and run. My question is: I would like to run this Tuesday, but I'm really scared that my endurance is out the window because I haven't ran in a week...do you think I'll have issues running my normal 5k?

[Gabriel Aidra]

Hey Emme,

In general airway hyperreactivity persists for a few weeks after a "cold" so you'll experience more couching than normal. Be especially careful if you've ever had asthma.

I wouldn't see it as a failure if I didn't get my 5m in, rather failure would be punhing my body too hard. Just pay attention to your body & you'll be gold.

[Unna]

I agree with Gabriel. What is your hurry?

If I were you, I'd just replace my jogging with some light walking, get some fresh air, then get back inside and in bed!

[Emme]

It's not a hurry, I just don't want to get back out there and only be able to run 1 mile because I've lost endurance from not running my normal 3+. I have a 5k coming up on the 26th which I'm sure is enough time to get back up to over 3, but I was just curious how much endurance we actually do lose by not being able to run for a week.

[stellarosa27]

I don't think that you'll lose much endurance. I'm training for a half marathon - I'm supposed to do 3 short runs during the week and 1 long one on the weekends - sometimes I can't do the 3 short runs (or any short runs during the week) and I've been able to up my mileage each long run. It's not really a problem.

You need to give your lungs time to heal!

[MariaMaria]

A week (one week, not every week) isn't a big deal. I wouldn't worry. Let how you feel guide you.

[jayohwhy]

In my experience, your first run back after a break will be crap, but after that it will feel just like normal and even better since you rested.

i think it's good you rested. don't worry.