“Embrace the Suck” is something often heard in the endurance community. And, I do believe there are times when pain simply has to be accepted and worked through in workouts, racing and in life. But….endless pain is simply unbearable. In workouts and races, I always remind myself that the pain I feel is usually voluntary and temporary. But in life, this may not be the case. Make sure you fully explore the injuries or reason for your pain, don’t accept that pills or surgery are the only type of relief. Simple things like strength training, acupuncture, massage and dry needling can help ease muscular pain, while meditation, deep relaxation therapy, and connecting with others going through similar situations can also help.