As of Sunday, we’re six weeks out from Ironman Maryland. I
wish I could explain my emotions, but I literally want to puke, cry, cheer and
poop all at the same time. Emotions and hormones are WEIRD man, especially when
endurance training. It’s a whole new level.
I am seriously so thankful for my coach, Ryan, because he’s
been through this training himself, gives me the best insight and tells me like
it is.
Me: “I had an absolute meltdown after the Steelman race. Not Because I was pissed or mad at my time. Because I was straight up just exhausted. This has to be normal right?”
Ryan: “This is why you will have 2 full weeks of ABSOFUCKINGLUTELY NOTHING after Ironman. The hormonal and adrenal fatigue is real and has a big impact on you -- so rest/recovery is the name of the game.”
Yes I’ve done triathlon, but I’ve never done it on this
scale or with a coach. Having a coach is amazing because Ryan dumbs down
eveeeryyyyyything for me. When it comes to how much I should eat and drink on
the bike and on the run, why my emotions are crazy, why my body is feeling this
way and not that way. He’s a science-based guy and knows the research and has
educated me so very much. I am beyond thankful for his guidance.
But as much as someone can talk you off the ledge, I still
have a foot hanging. LUCKILY, I’m not the only one thinking this way, doubting
myself almost every day saying “Have I done enough? Am I doing enough?”
Example, see photo below from someone else doing IMMD and this post in our
Facebook group. (hahaha) As the 23 comments reflect, so many of us feel the
same way and the other 50% are letting us know this is all normal and they have
felt this way as well.
Monday: rest
Tuesday: Run and Swim
Wednesday: Bike and Swim
Thursday: Run
Friday: Swim
Saturday: Bike and Run
Sunday: Run, Bike, Run
Tuesday: Run and Swim
Wednesday: Bike and Swim
Thursday: Run
Friday: Swim
Saturday: Bike and Run
Sunday: Run, Bike, Run
This weekend I will ride my longest distance to date, 112
miles, where I’m heading down to Cambridge to have a preview of the course.
I’ll be heading down solo so it is sure to be a test to my mental strength. I’m
looking forward to seeing the course and soaking in the great atmosphere before
heading there in September. Following up a few weekends after I’ll have several
6 hour rides, again, testing my mind.
I’m looking forward to checking in with everyone after this
weekend and giving another update. Until next time…
#NoSleepTillCambridge
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