I have a 50K race (~6000' elevation) in two weeks, and 5 days ago I rolled my ankle while going downhill and lightly sprained it. It's not a serious sprain, right now I can still walk just fine, but sometimes there is light pain if my foot bends a certain way and my ankle doesnt feel as stable as it normally does.
This is only my second 50K, and I'm not really sure how I should approach the next two weeks before the race. Before the sprain, I was averaging 40+ miles per week and did at least five 4-hour long runs on the actual trails where the race will be held. I did all the R.I.C.E. treatment stuff the days after the sprain and stopped doing any runs, hoping it will heal and feel fine by race day.
I know I'm supposed to start tapering soon, but I also know that doesn't mean being inactive. When my ankle feels better, what type of runs would be best for me to maintain my fitness at this point? Should I do any more strength workouts or even any more light speed workouts? Would I risk a different injury if I tried to run a 50k after 2 weeks of inactivity?
Does anyone have experience or advice for my situation? I'm not going for a time goal. I run mid to back of the pack and just want to complete the 50k. Thank you