As runners, we've all faced our fair share of challenges, both physical and mental. One of the most common obstacles to putting in all the miles we want to run? Knee pain. It can be frustrating, discouraging, and even debilitating. If you listen to the podcast, you know I recently had my knee scoped about 7 weeks ago. I’m getting my mileage back up for High Lonesome 100 in July! It’s coming quickly!

In our recent conversation on the podcast, John Calabrese shared his experiences as an ultrarunner, including his struggles with knee pain. While we touched on this topic in the podcast, we wanted to dive a bit deeper and provide you with some valuable insights on how to manage and overcome this common issue.
​

• First and foremost, it's essential to listen to your body. If you're experiencing persistent knee pain, don't ignore it. Take a step back and assess your training regimen. Are you overtraining? Is your form in need of adjustment? Consider scaling back your mileage or intensity to allow your body time to recover. See a doctor if it persists. My knee pain required surgery to get it fixed.
  ​
• Next, focus on strengthening exercises that target the muscles supporting your knees, such as your quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip abductors. Incorporating exercises like squats, lunges, and leg presses into your routine can help improve stability and reduce the risk of injury. It’s good practice to keep this going throughout training to keep everything strong and balanced.
  ​
• Don't underestimate the power of proper footwear, either. Invest in a quality pair of running shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning for your specific needs. Remember, what works for one runner might not work for another, so take the time to find the right fit for you.
  ​
• Finally, consider incorporating cross-training activities into your routine. Swimming, cycling, and elliptical training can provide a low-impact means of maintaining your cardiovascular fitness while giving your joints a break from the repetitive stress of running.
  ​

For more insights on John's ultrarunning journey and how he's managed to overcome knee pain and other challenges, be sure to check out our latest podcast episode. His story is a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit, and we hope it inspires you to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity.

​
On the Journey,

David Theriot

P.S. If you're looking to run your first or furthest ultra or just looking to take your running to the next level, we'd love to chat with you about it! Click here to learn more!​
​