When my new training program arrived in my in-box last night I quickly opened it, scanned the contents and got an inkling of what was in store for me. Then I closed it – no need to scare myself before bed. Today, I have been sitting looking at my just-printed training program for the next 4 weeks and its slowly starting to sink in – the next 3 weeks are going to involve a lot of hard work. I know that if I get through these next few weeks that I will be able to complete a half Ironman triathlon. Which is the whole point of it really, isn’t it. It’s just seeing it on paper and knowing what it will entail is just slightly frightening and a tad bit overwhelming at the moment. However I also know it will be a case of suck it up and just do it. It’s just every now and then I suffer the self doubts – can I do this?…what if I can’t do this?…..maybe I’m getting too old for this stuff………maybe I really suck at this…..those sort of self doubts.
And because I have a long hilly ride (with an emphasis on hilly in case I missed it!) scheduled for this coming Saturday last night I dreamt I cycled Coppins Crossing and every other hilly road in Canberra last night. No wonder I was tired when I woke this morning! But I bet that doesn’t count as training although visualisation is a useful technique and is meant to be as good as the real thing (I know, I’m clutching at straws. Coach says that dreaming of hill riding counts as ADDITIONAL training whereas I was hoping INSTEAD OF!)
Anyway, it was off to the gym for a weights session this morning, after a much-appreciated, and fortifying, black coffee (well, you try cycling every hilly road in Canberra overnight in your sleep!). I have noticed my leg strength has improved a lot – the leg press, lunges and hamstring curls were done with increased weights. Can’t say the same for push ups and triceps push ups though – they never seem to get any easier. However I also felt the improvement when doing seated cable rows and standing shoulder presses with a barbell – it must be all that swimming. Its gotta be good for something other than avoiding drowning.
And tonight I completed the first of 2 intervals sessions for the week on the bike. No problems to report, just tired legs;)
Tomorrow: the plan is to swim again and, maybe, go for a run at lunchtime. I’ll make up my mind about the run tomorrow…..no pressure.
“You must remain focused on your journey to greatness.” – Les Brown
You can do it !!
I know. I just have to ignore those self doubts & just focus on the training.
I wouldn’t give you anything I didn’t absolutely KNOW you were capable of
Just make sure you get as much sleep as you can over the next 3 weeks. And just keep your focus narrow; one day at a time. What you have to do today is all that matters.
And yes you can and will do it
Thanks coach
. I aim to focus on one day at a time & not get ahead of myself. I can do this!