Do what the doc says and shoot a crap-ton of arrows!
After living with somewhat debilitating heel and ankle pain for almost 6 weeks, I finally gave in and consulted with my doctor to get a recommendation on fixing this.
Two options: steroid injections into the achilles tendon, or... physical therapy, rest and anti-inflammatory meds.
I chose the 2nd option. It's the beginning of the second week of therapy and I can say two things are happening:
- My ankle is getting better
- My archery skill is improving
Why archery? Well about a year ago, we got our kids youth compound bows and they've been loving it. Later, I got one for myself and found that target practice is one of the best mind-clearing activities I've come across. Breath, motor control and relaxed concentration are key.
When you can't run, the worst thing you can do is sit around and worry about it. So I picked up the bow and have been setting a goal to shoot 100 arrows per session. Sometimes I go over, sometimes I go under. The actual number isn't as important as the thought that there is only one arrow that you are shooting. As in one breath, one moment of zen arrow.
Right now I can hit a 20 yard target with decent accuracy, and after a few tracer shots, I can hit a target 40 yards away with consistency. I'm no Robin Hood, and in fact have never robin-hooded an arrow (not yet), but this slow and controlled shooting practice is fun and I can't recommend it enough.
To be clear, I am not expecting archery practice to improve my running form, stride, cardiovascular endurance or ability to run hills. I have other activities to help with that.
