Return to Running Rules of Thumb - Are You Ready?

I recently shared a simple return to running program for medical and fitness professionals to help injured runners return to consistent training. Before initiating such a program, however, a runner should meet certain prerequisites or milestones to ensure that it is appropriate to advance their activity level while avoiding a potential relapse in their condition. In the event a runner does not meet the items on this checklist, and prematurely attempts to return to training, they are playing with fire and will most likely prolong their recovery. So before transitioning a runner back to training, take the time to ensure that they meet the prerequisites outlined below. ​

​NO SIGNS OR SX OF INFLAMMATION

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PILLS & INJECTABLES OUT OF YOUR SYSTEM 

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​ABILITY TO FULLY WEIGHT BEAR THROUGH THE AFFECTED EXTREMITY 

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​ABILITY TO PROGRESS THE LEG OVER THE FOOT 

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​TOLERANCE OF OPEN CHAIN LOWER EXTREMITY EXERCISES

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​TOLERANCE OF CLOSED CHAIN LOWER EXTREMITY EXERCISES

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​GOOD FRONTAL PLANE CONTROL

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​TOLERANCE OF 45-60' OF FITNESS WALKING

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​TOLERANCE OF REPETITIVE SINGLE LEG HOPPING IN MULTIPLE DIRECTIONS