Question from a Runner with Knee Pain

I'm following a training plan for a race I'm running next month.  But the past few runs I've noticed some discomfort around my knee.  It doesn't bother me too much, but I wonder if I should rest it or just continue with my run schedule.  I really want to PR at my race, so I'm hoping you'll suggest the latter.  What do you think?

from K.Myers 

Answer:   

Whether it’s running, cycling, swimming, or tiddly winks—if it hurts, don’t do it.  Pain is a sign that something is wrong.  Your body is sending you signals all the time, so pay attention.  As athletes, we develop the ability to ignore physical and mental demands to stop as that’s what is often required to meet or even exceed our performance goals.  However, the skill of listening to the body can be easily left underdeveloped as we grow increasingly reliant on heart rate monitors, power meters, and GPS systems to tell us how we’re feeling.  The cost often sidelines us for longer than would have happened if we had just heard and addressed the body’s early attempts to alert us that something wasn’t right.  Injuries occur to bring us back into our bodies and into the present moment.  Avoid them by honoring your body with rest if/when it’s necessary.  As your body responds, you can resume training at the volume you were using before symptoms appeared.  Don’t worry about the delay or getting behind in your preparation.  It’s all about getting to the starting line healthy!