Here's the scoop - you know from reading my blog how tired I am. And if you haven't been reading the last few days, I'm at 3.5 weeks out from Ironman, so that pretty much says it all. This last weekend, and really the last few weeks (with the exception of that fabulous 19.5 mile run last week), have been the hardest BY FAR, as is to be expected. (yes, yes, that means I'm doing it right, I know). So I show up at TSF last night to ride. There are only 5 of us. Truth be told I barely made it thanks to a late meeting at work and literally broke the sound barrier getting there on time. (yes, perhaps the universe WAS trying to tell me something). Off we go, and almost from the start, I struggle to keep up. I'm certainly not anywhere near the best cyclist at TSF, but I have to say that I have continued to improve on the bike this year, especially in the climbing arena, and I should have been able to keep up. I mean, I was REALLY struggling. Closing in on the end, Matt ended up waiting for me, (thanks Matt), and when I caught up he says "how's your power", I say "f'ing awful - there is no power". He looks at me and says, '4 weeks ago you were kicking my ass' and I said ya, and now I can't keep up no matter how hard I try. And then he adds insult to injury by telling me he's not even trying that hard because he's tired. :) Ok. Point taken.
So, long story short, Chris and Matt both agree, nothing for the next 3 days. I'm overstressed. On Matt's strong advice (aka Do not pass go, Do not collect $200, you need to do this NOW...apparently Matt knows me better than I thought he did) I am getting bloodwork done tomorrow to test my iron levels, as he suspects an iron deficiency. And BTW Matt, I did throw it right back where you suggested and had steak for dinner tonight ;)
I think the plan is on Saturday we will do a shortened version of the brick workout on the schedule, and then see how it looks for what I can do Sunday. As Chris has reminded me - 95+% of my training is done. I'm not going to add much more to the bank at this point, but could potentially do more harm than good with more training. So now it is about maintaining the fitness (and possibly recovering it a bit if I've started down the wrong side of that balancing act). Just keep it going so I peak at the right time.
I got a good night's sleep last night, which has helped, and I'm feeling a little better today. Telling myself it is not too late to bring it back, and be ready for Aug 28. Chris, again, reminded me that I recover fast - an advantage of having the same coach for the last 3 years, he knows how my body reacts to most of this stuff. And he's not worried, or so he says, which holds a lot of weight with me.
As I make my way towards this huge goal, it's amazing to me how much support I really have. And how it seems to come when you really need it but don't expect it. Kevin sent me a really sweet and unexpected text today of encouragement and confidence - thanks for that. Got to talk with James last night - welcome back, so great to see you - who said of course it is not too late to recover it. Tracy, Mo, and everyone else at TSF ... always so supportive, and always make my days better when I see you guys. Notes of hey how are you holding up from Mark. FB posts from Jim and others. My dear girlfriends in Calgary, though I've neglected them for so long, still keeping tabs on me and cheering me on. Dinner with JLess tonight - thanks girl, and with a bottle of vitamins no less, not to mention the recommendation of her internist for my appt tomorrow who resolved her own iron issues. My work buddies, Anne and Marc, always interested in my endless talks about training, along with motherly concern from Anne ;) and looking up tool prices for me at HD from Marc when I'm too damn busy to go at lunch (thanks man). Matt's advice and stewardship of all his TSF athletes. My Mum and daughter, always supportive and encouraging, and just loving me no matter what. Richard, my faraway racing mate (guess who we get to see in Penticton btw - just talked to Jenann and she's gonna be there at the same time!!! what are the odds). Most of all, my amazing coach, who I love like a big brother (even though I am older).
I have great friends, and am touched beyond words at how much they give to me.
So, I am sure everything is gonna be just fine. I'll rest for a few days, my body will recover, my mind will continue to get stronger, and I'll show up in Penticton and race what I know I am capable of.
Now I'm off to bed, having just spoken to a girlfriend I haven't spoken to in far too long - thank you Jenann for calling me! - and pretty darn excited on the divine coincidence that she is gonna be in Penticton, camping, in the same week we are racing Ironman. I asked her what on earth possessed them to go to Penticton during Ironman Week when they are not involved in the race in any way - and she said, I guess it was meant to be. I reckon she's right. YAY!!!! Can't wait to see you!!!
Happy training, even if that means resting...
Kat
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