For me training is more than just running. When I start training, I pay close attention to what I eat, my hydration and sleep.
This training cycle is going to be longer than usual. I plan on patiently, even methodically building my fitness and speed. The goal is to focus on 5k-10k distances with the peak racing in early to mid August. I believe I can set new PRs at these distances, but time is running out.
This is the 1st time ever that I will focus on a few shorter races. In the past anything under a marathon was just done during marathon training.
Also for the 1st time ever, I have asked a friend to give training feedback and advice.
I have 2 longer races I am committed to doing for fun: Clinton Lakes 30 miler and Boston Marathon. Neither is a goal race and I will not try to do a mini-peak. I still have an "Old Man" goal of continuing my streak of years with a sub-3 marathon, but if it does not happen at Boston, it will have to happen later this fall.
Truthfully I do not know if I am capable of turning my back on marathon and ultra-running in 2013, but I am going to try. We will see if I can prevail or I will revert back to old habits.
I have also chosen early August as my goal race time, because I really, really, really want to do Superior 100M in early September. I am very conflicted on postponing this another year or doing it without true ultra training.
I am also struggling with Dances with Dirt (DWD) 50 miler in July - This race does not fit my training or goals at all. I set a goal of running it in 2012 before I decided on 2013 goals. I think the smart thing to do is to run the DWD 10k race instead. I am not sure if I am that smart.
Once you have been pulled neck deep into ultra-running, it is a hard habit to break.
Yeah, it sure is that. I'm in for both Kettle and Leadville this year. So, long weekend training runs have begun. Just ran 34 this weekend 24/10. The past 3 weekends of 26.2/50K/34M. I won't focus much on road speed this winter/spring. Plan is to run the Chicago Marathon and Lakefront 50 Mile again in the Fall.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I am afraid of running anything under a half marathon these days :).
I hear that - That is why I am going to give it a try.
ReplyDeleteI hit 50 years old and thought I'd focus on short distance records. Then I got free entry into an ultra. I can't pass up a free race.
ReplyDeleteSteve
ReplyDeleteI just think for overall health, I need to move everything down a notch in 2013. Be a more well rounded athlete and not just a runner. I think this will give my body a chance to recover form the abuse of higher mileage the last 5 years.
It also is mentally soothing to be looking out 8 months, knowing I can be patient and smart about training.
I believe I can still set some short distance PRs (5k-10 mile)