Starting running
I've done plenty of high intensity sports training (kickboxing, circuit trainings etc) but never running. This fall I was bitten by the running bug. I started doing around 10km runs once or twice a week. Then I got my Icebugs and did few 14km runs on snow.
Now both ankles are inflammed. My ortopedic put me on pain meds and no running for two weeks and then to start easier. Here's the problem. What's easier? As I said I'm pretty fit so my ankles apparently break a lot before my fitness gives in. So how should I progress my runs now when I return to running?
Edit:
I run with short steps and mainly forefoot landing as I think this should be best for my ankles/knees? I don't pronate/supinate. According to ankle x-rays there's nothing wrong with my ankle structurally.
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People who are fit can easily get hurt by applying that fitness to an activity that they're not used to. Their strength and conditioning engine is able to handle the workload, but their mobility and joints may not. In these cases you need something like Couch to 5k for the fit: a ramp-up program that challenges you while not overstepping the capabilities of your bones, ligaments, and tendons.
I'd try dramatically reduced running volume--something like ~1km at first--before ramping back up slowly, perhaps adding a kilometer every third run, to 10km. Sprints, if they don't aggravate the issue more, could be used to increase the intensity without adding problematic volume.
I would also consider the possibility that you could develop a tougher constitution through strength training. Weight-bearing exercise is great for bones and ligaments when done in a progressive manner. Deadlifts, power cleans, and squats come highly recommended for runners.
To answer your question "what's easier", cross training to start. There are several different ways to start cross training. Pool running running in the deep end of the pool where you cannot touch the bottom will take the impact off your ankles. This works several of the same motions and muscles that you will need to stay in running shape.
This link offers instructions, tempo workouts, and explains the benefits to pool running.
www.runaddicts.net/tips-tricks/the-top-3-cross-training-exercises-for-runners
Due to the temperature of the water, I found it harder to get my heart rate up, so I included cycling, yoga, & weights as permitted by my doctors & trainers. Competitor continues to elaborate on the different options for cross training (cycling, swimming, etc).
running.competitor.com/2012/08/training/four-ways-to-cross-train_56243
I have been running for quite a while already, and completed 20 marathons and ultras without injuries.
Yet I would say that running on deep snow is not quite easy on my ankles. I do it, but slowly and carefully, and for the purpose of strengthening my legs.
It might help you if you run mostly on harder surfaces for a while. Also are you running on flat surfaces or hills? If you can, diversify your running, including uphill, downhill, and around the hill, both clockwise and counterclockwise, so that you use different muscle groups.
I'm not surprised that you have inflamed ankles. You are stating that you went from not running at all, to running 6 miles once or twice a week. That's a big chunk to just go out and start running.
Like anything else, you need to work into it. Make sure that you have shoes that are appropriate for your stride and foot landing pattern, and change them out on a regular basis. I run in more minimalist shoes (Less padding), and I get around 3-400 miles out of a single pair.
Start with maybe 10 minute runs 3-5 times a week, and gradually (no more than 5-10% at most) increase every couple of weeks. You can also look into the Galloway run/walk system, where you do a combination of running and walking, or else I like a program called 3:2:1. Basically, you do 3 short runs, two medium and one long. Each one is double the previous run.
So, if your short run is 10 minutes, then your medium run is 20, and your long run is 30. I would start with 7, 14 and 21 initially, and bump it up from there. The benefits from running are great, but you need to work your way up to the longer runs.
Just a guess, but I would say that your ankle problems are caused by a combination of your shoes and your stride. When you run, do you land on your heel, midfoot or forefoot? Did you choose a pair of shoes appropriate for your stride and your pronation? It is probably worth going to a specialty running store, if they have them in your area, and have them help you choose the correct shoe.
If you don't have access to a store like that, you can take the 'wet test' to determine your foot type and look at the wear patterns on your current shoes to provide additional insight to the type of shoe that's going to serve you best.
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