Hi everyone! I’m new to structured running and would really appreciate some advice.
I previously ran casually 2–3 times a week, but just about two months ago started training for a 10K and half marathon in December. I now do four runs a week - easy, intervals, tempo and a long run -plus two gym strength sessions and some swimming. My recent longest run was 16 km.
I have a history of underfueling and have been working on eating consistently and adequately. Now I am at around 2200-2300kcal per day.
Initially, my energy and running improved considerably, but over the past 1–2 weeks I’ve felt unusually tired. After one really good interval session two weeks ago, subsequent runs have felt much harder, and I’ve been getting slower despite putting in the same effort.
On Monday this week, I developed a large blister on the inside of my left foot, near the arch. It opened and bled, and running on it became painful enough to change my gait and make me stop. After today’s long run, I’m noticing similar rubbing on my right foot too. For reference, I run in Adidas Adizero SX.
I tend to put weight on the inner edges of both feet, even when standing, which makes me wonder whether I overpronate - but I haven’t had my running gait assessed. Unfortunately, finding a good orthopaedic or sports specialist where I live is difficult, and I’m not sure where to go, so I’m trying to understand and troubleshoot this myself for now.
Could accumulated fatigue be affecting my running mechanics and contributing to the rubbing, or would shoe fit, insoles or socks be more likely explanations?
Has anyone dealt with something similar? I’ve applied a cushioning pad and have been trying to run with the blisters, although I’m not sure that’s a good idea. I’m training for a half marathon and feel anxious about missing workouts and losing progress. I’d appreciate advice on managing the blisters while they heal, preventing them from coming back, and recognising when fatigue and slower runs mean it’s time to ease back.
Thanks 🙏🙏