One of my biggest fears about donating was that I wouldn't be able to really run again (or at least not like I used too). Well, given that I have to keep in shape post-donation and the weight-lifting/abdominal restrictions - the running bug is a blessing!
I will be about 3 months post surgery in a few weeks. Since surgery, I am back into doing a lot of running and building up distance over speed. But, speed is building back up at a surprising rate as well. I was concentrating on distance versus speed because I know that I can't rely on Ibuprofen ("Vitamin-I") now for sore muscles
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Initially I was worried about staying hydrated given the single kidney situation. As I have been building up I am finding that I am actually not consuming as much water as I thought I would and staying hydrated hasn't been an issue. But, again, I have been running at a slower speed and concentrating on distance. I am doing a local half-marathon here in Memphis area in March (Germantown Half in case anyone is local and wants to join me). Based on my current training I know I am good with that distance as long as I watch my pace. I am already able to sustain a decent pace and complete 12 miles without crashing as long as I use good judgment.
But... I am training for a full Marathon in Louisville, KY (Kentucky Derby Festival Marathon in case anyone is interested in joining me on that one). The longer distance one makes me a bit more concerned on staying hydrated for the longer distance. And, it will be my first marathon.
Are there any single-kidney runners on the forum who have done half marathons or other longer distances who can provide me some advice, input, or suggestions that I should be considering given the single kidney situation? Any input is greatly appreciated - I just want to finish it without crashing out. It is a personal goal that I always wanted to do before I donated so doing it post-donation is going to make it even sweeter.
Thanks in advance - Scott