I love summer. We really didn't have one this year. Second place for me goes to fall. The colours, the mild temperatures and relaxed nature before the heading to Christmas are all great. I've had a 2017 to forget - not every year goes smoothly but I accept it and move on. Injuries, career move, loss of a family member all contributed. I managed to "race" but my fitness was quite low. With all that said I'm excited for the off season and the potential to make 2018 a great year! That's the beauty of triathlon - we can hit that reset button every year.
As I head towards winter I am taking stock of all facets of my life and set goals toward them. With regards to fitness I'm going back to my plan of running more frequently. When I employed this strategy I had the best Tri season of my life and managed a nice PB in Lake Placid (11:09). My marathon in that race was 3:53 - proof that my plan worked. Back then I ran 76 of 100 days from mid December to mid March. Each of those runs lasted at least 30 minutes and the pace for the most part was relaxed. Slowtwitch.com is where I first saw this and it's goal is to build the aerobic system gradually and incorporate tempo/speed after a period of adaptation. Very basic and very sound.
I won't be employing this for the off season. I did the November thing a couple of years ago. I was so creeped out by my own appearance that I vowed I would not do it again. I will, however, donate to the cause!
This is me in 2011 at Lake Placid. Everything came together that year and the race fell into place. I'm currently at 165lbs and I entered that race at 150lbs. My current tempo pacing reflects the extra weight I'm carrying. I don't deny myself, especially craft beer, but I can clean up my diet as well. Sara and I will meal plan and get more fruit and veggies into the mix. Sara has been telling me I don't drink enough water. I usually count my 3-4 coffees but beyond that I really don't hydrate enough. This camel is going to improve that!
Jazzercise anyone?!
No fartlek for me just yet but I've got the fart nailed down.
So true. I know lots of people who are genetically gifted, train hard and excel in triathlon. I also know lots who may not be so genetically gifted but put in the work day in and day out and excel on their own terms. Either way the consistency of chopping wood and carrying water daily over the weeks and months is what brings success. It may not be glamorous but it's a necessary habit. I know I've gotten away from it but the beauty of it is you can restart any time.
Love this quote. I find when I race I use people around me to push me further. I'm not necessarily trying to "beat" them - I'm simply trying to get from point A to point B as quickly as possible. I also like that it implies breaking down lofty goals into bite-sized pieces. To seek out what I can do today that will get me to the finish.
I look forward to crossing paths with everyone in the future. Share your goals and dreams - you never know who might be able to help with them. Stay healthy and don't forget this is meant to be fun!
Cheers!
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