Expert: Ryan Hale - 11/27/2009

Question
I ran competitive Cross Country in high school, but developed and practiced anorexia from age 14-16, after which my body couldn't take it anymore and I went into a severe depression and began eating.
My running was shot for the next year.
Not really sure what had happened until later, I did not receive or address the eating disorder until it showed up again in college. I ended up losing memory function and becoming osteopenic in my spine.
After refeeding, my EKG came back ok, which is awesome. I began running, not excessively, but it is very difficult. Where as during the recent episode of anorexia I was able to cycle 100 miles and finish first in my age group, now I have trouble running for 15 minutes.
What is going on and how long will it take me to be able to run (at a decent pace) again? Will my athletic abilities return? How do I train after this? I never tried to run to lose weight, I honestly just really love endurance sports.

Answer
Courtney- first, there is a difference between cycling fitness and running fitness. Pro cyclists will tell you that they can be as fit as ever but get winded running up a flight of stairs.  Also, cycling is considered a non-weight bearing sport which can effect your heart rate differently than a gravity dependant activity like running.  So, those two sports are not always comparable.

Second, because eating disorders and depression are so common together, you need to be sure you are doing maintenance for both with a mental health professional because if one returns or worsens, the other can/will too.  It's always a good idea to regularly check in with your therapist and keep on track.

Third, you might try focusing right now on health and fitness by making sure your diet is adequate and contains enough calories for any increased activity, but also think about adding in weight training, yoga, or Palates.  If you work with a qualified fitness professional who has experience working with clients in disease states (osteopenia specifically) you will have the best results.  The strength training can help with bone density but only if done at a high enough intensity and if your physician says to go ahead.

It's impossible to say how your running will progress.  Be very patient and don't get upset with the amount of time it may take to get back to running form.  Allow your body to readjust, enjoy trying new activities that will ultimately help you to be healthier and be patient.  Good luck