I took a week's break from running...

froeschli

...because i knocked my knees up pretty good falling down some stairs. (don't ask - all i will say no more heels for me )

Now, a bit bruised still (especially my ego) I've done some 5k runs - seen as i usually do 30-40k a week, they shouldn't pose a problem, but I am struggling. big time. like i can't find my pace anymore. And I am clocking times that used to be good months ago. My knees and legs seem fine...

Is this normal?