10 Years Running – Happy New Year

Happy New Year Hip Runner Nation!

It is hard to believe that it has been 10 years since I had to get my hip replaced.  I remember it like it was yesterday.  There was no doubt that I would get back to running.  The inspiration to start this Hip Runner community was just beginning to develop.  At first, I was only going to document my progress so that others would be able to see that getting back to running after having a hip replacement was very possible.  But as the months progressed, I realized 1) that I was a terrible blogger and 2) there were others with inspiring stories who needed to have a voice on this site.  Since then, the site and its membership has grown to over 1700 members.   This community of members is the engine that makes this site run and gives hope to those who are unsure about their running future going into their hip replacements.  I have to offer up a big THANK YOU to all of you for your contributions.

My year of running in 2022 was hit and miss due to a string of injuries and a new job with a startup company that has great promise.  I am currently sitting on my couch as I write this post, icing my Achilles tendon on my right foot.  My goal for 2022 was to try to run every day – even if it was just a mile.  But I injured my Achilles in the fall while coaching my grade school cross country team.   The parks around our school turned off their water fountains as part of the city’s Covid-19 protocols.   To provide hydration to the kids on the team, I decided to push a baby jogger with a 5 gallon jug of water strapped on it.  It worked out great.  But my kids are fast, and trying to keep up with them while pushing this hydration system caused me to tweak my Achilles tendon.  Since then I have tried to cross-train and stay fit while limiting my running.  Yesterday was the first try after a long rest at returning to running.   A little … slow… 3 miler.  I limped it in.

In the last 10 years, I have been fortunate to continue my running.  Many of my friendships are centered around running. We have logged thousands of miles on area roads and trails.   The bonds we share are unbreakable.  I have had many great experiences.  There have been numerous age group awards running half marathons.  I have run up and over “Lone Peak” at “The Rut” in Montana – truly an amazing experience.  I have run across the Grand Canyon.  I have experienced the beauty of the Enchantments above the quaint little German town of Leavenworth, Washington.  All of this was done on my new hip.  On top of that, I have gained many Hip Runner friends through this site.

As it goes with everyone on this site,  my current injury is a minor obstacle in the way of me returning to running.  I have no doubt that I will be logging miles again.  I wish you all a safe, happy, and optimistic 2022.  Never quit, chase your dreams, and know that your hip and your attitude will allow you to have great running experiences this year.