It has become more and more apparent in the last couple weeks that training for this race is going to involve a lot more than just hitting the trails.
Following the Rules
As instructed by the physio I have been keeping my runs under 15 to 20 minutes. When I compared this to the training schedule, my reaction was something akin to being told it is only Tuesday. Sure, I have made progress, but holy is there a long way to go!
Of course, the advice to cut back distance and focus on physio homework is logical. Nevertheless, the divergence from my plan is less than ideal.
Just One Piece of the Puzzle
To stay motivated I feel like I need to be making continuous progress. It has become pretty clear that I will not always be able to achieve this by just running. I need to take a step back and look at the bigger picture.
Over the past couple weeks, I have been pondering other aspects of preparation. The ultimate question is: When I am out there on the trail, what do I need to succeed?
The Bod
A lunge here, a squat there… I have never really thought too much about cross-training. In my mind it was just something extra to sprinkle in, if and when I had time.
Apparently, there is a little more to it.
This ultra is undoubtedly the most extreme physical goal I have ever pursued. Having a well-trained cardiovascular system is all well and good, but definitely not enough to guarantee success. I can continue to improve during this slow down in running by working on the physiotherapist’s recommended moves (and more).
Mind Game
When out for a rip there are a plethora of thoughts running through my head.. “just make it to the next tree”, “what should I make for dinner?”, “I am crushing this!”, “I wonder when they would find me if I collapsed here”.
Sorting through this mess of thoughts and emotions while being cognizant of my pace and breathing is not easy. There are also mental factors at play when motivating myself to even do the race.
Last week, I dipped my toe into the world of meditation through a guided group session. I know virtually nothing about meditation right now, but the idea of using mindfulness to manage the psychological component is definitely appealing. Hopefully, more to come on that.
With distance taking a backseat, I have been focusing on making that continuing progress through these complementary skills. Hoping they will help me come back even stronger when the physio gives the green light!
