16th March
Sun 16th March.
I’ve had another rather mixed and inconsistent training period. The usual excuses apply (tired, very busy, minor injury niggles, other priorities etc…) and I guess that’s the distinguishing features between me (along with many others, I guess) as a rather social athlete, and those of us that are more focused and driven, and as a result more competitive.
Last year my training was focused towards a particular goal (ironman). Mentally and physically I prepared well and as a result reaped the benefits of personal success. This year without that big goal, I don’t seem to have engaged that mental dedication. That fear of not performing come race day. That competitive edge is lacking and so with it my motivation (it seems!!).
After finishing 25th in the Coastal half (which if I’m honest I was pleased to get round) my knees blew up like balloons in protest of the punishing steep descents in the race.
Following this, I had a great week of altitude training, in the form of a ski holiday. A great break from the busy few months. Pushing it hard on the slopes I’m sure would have done my fitness no harm, although the good stuff was promptly countered by some very committed “après ski”!!
Intermittent outings on the bike have kept me ticking over. Mainly in the form of extended commutes, this has given me a hilly 30 mile round trip. I try and push hard on the hills, but haven’t been working to heart rate.
My absence from the pool has been remarked upon by a few of my Bad Tri training pals. This has embarrassed and shamed me sufficiently to get back to the morning pool sessions…so Tuesday morning I’m expecting a shocker!
Sadly, the knees, aggravated further by skiing are still a problem when running. With regular administrations they have improved, but not in time to get me to the Cornish Coastal half marathon. This took place yesterday. I had to drop out, as there was no chance that the knees would cope with another pounding up and down those unforgiving coastal paths. Although another minor blow to the planned schedule, it was definitely a sensible decision, and I should be back running in the week, albeit with care.
So what’s next:
Next month I hope (knees permitting) to run the final coastal half marathon-Exmoor. I am also targeting training camp (first week in May) in the Pyrennes as a big spring board to the summer season. To benefit maximally from this week, which will be a punishing and intense week of swimming cycling and running, I need to be in reasonable shape.
So, I must motivate myself and put in a good 6 weeks of progressive build training. Let’s see if I can get my act together!!
Osteopath’s tips for March:
Knees: Injury prevention is key to maintaining healthy knees. Knee stability relies hugely on muscular support. Stability/proprioceptive exercises as well as strength work will help prevent unwanted niggles and more major injuries. Flexibility/stretching work is also important in maintaining muscular balance around the knee.
It is always best to get any knee injury assessed, as early management will greatly accelerate you return to fitness.