202. Pro Runner Megan Roche, MD on Training After COVID and Post-Vaccine

Training Safety

Megan Roche, a professional runner and medical doctor, shares insights on safely returning to training after COVID-19. She emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body and being cautious with symptoms, as COVID can cause inflammation in the musculoskeletal system, potentially leading to injuries 1. Roche advises against rushing back into training or racing, as the body needs time to adjust post-illness 2.

Everyone is their own little N equals one study. There's so much variability. You really have to just see how you personally uniquely respond to both the vaccine or COVID if you get it.

--- Jason Fitzgerald

She suggests athletes should not pressure themselves with upcoming races, as this can lead to anxiety and hinder recovery.

   

Health Monitoring

Monitoring health post-COVID is crucial, and Megan Roche recommends a cautious approach similar to recovering from a stress fracture. She introduces the concept of a "diagnostic run" to assess how the body responds after a period of rest 3. Using heart rate monitors can help track recovery, as elevated heart rates may indicate the body is still recovering from the virus.

I think for me, I as a coach always err on the side of caution with athletes about this.

--- Megan Roche

Roche stresses the unpredictability of COVID, highlighting that recovery times vary greatly among individuals, making personalized monitoring essential 4.