For as long as I can remember, I have had a very difficult time recovering from races, especially 5 miles and above. Yesterday, for example, I raced a decent 10k on the roads, but today, my quads are sore to the touch, my calves are knots, and my lower back is stiff. Odds are, I’ll have to run easy all week and won’t be able to work out again until next weekend. This happens after just about every race, good or bad, longer than 5k.
I never have this problem after workouts. After 2 easy days, I’m ready to go, even after the most strenuous workout. I’ve racked my brain for every possible cause. I train on all surfaces. I use the same shoes for training and racing. I’m adequately tapered for races. I eat immediately afterward. I’m in my late 20’s and have been training and racing consistently with college. My PR’s are low-15 5k, low-32 10k, and 1:09 half.
Does anybody have any experience with this, or have any theories as to why these all-out efforts cause me tremendous muscle damage? I’d like to fix this, so I can race more often. Thanks much for the help.