Sunday, January 6, 2013

2013 training starts January 7th

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.

4 comments:

  1. 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.

    Personally, I am afraid of running anything under a half marathon these days :).

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  2. I hear that - That is why I am going to give it a try.

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  3. I 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.

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  4. Steve

    I 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)

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