Bye Bye Running

My last post was very positive about how running was really improving my leg. I was incredibly stressed out due to work and needed some positive outlet to deal with it. I therefore started to go to the gym every morning before work. I started to push myself a lot which is great but I began to compete with other runners at the gym and many times pushed myself too far. My leg was getting more swollen and pretty painful. I definitely did not want to stop going to the gym because my entire outlook on life changed and I felt much happier during the day and better able to deal with any stressor in my professional or personal life. So I ended up going back to the elliptical and/or walking. I started knocking out 5 miles almost every morning with that combo and felt much, much less pain. I do sometimes wonder if the benefits aren't as dramatic as running so I need to be better about adding in weights to my workouts. I just find it so boring! I also need to try yoga and other modes of exercise. I just find cardio so enjoyable like I am in my own little world. Couple of points I would like to make with this post. 1) Competition is great at the gym because it pushes us but unfortunately, we are not like most people at the gym and keeping up with a person who does not have Lymphedema may just not be good for us! Compete to a level of pushing yourself but always take notice of how your leg reacts and modify your workouts accordingly. If it's painful, slow down. 2) Each person has a workout that is appropriate for them. If you're not bothered by the running then continue! If you're in pain or your're swelling is worsening, find a minimal impact exercise. 3)Remind me to not be lazy about the weight lifting because I have read that building muscle in our leg is one of the best things to do.