Cycling up or Down in Training

Cycles.I found an article in my research that is helping me tremendously to understand possibly why I had injuries this year.  Its about cycles, and the explaniation is pretty logical.  I went from doing 13 km in the winter for my longer runs- 15 km to 24 km.  This buildup with no real reprieve is immensely problematic to the need for our bodies to recuperate and rest.  True of life as well. We are not machines, impervious to wear and tear.  We are organic.  Resting is a part of growing, of strengthening and of producing.  Its as important as the actual work.  Swing to either side of the pendulum and there will be trouble. So I am realizing there is much more to learn about preparing for a race, about planning for improvement and for making gains in life.  To everything there is a season.

I'm Freakin Out

Firsts.I could go mental trying to figure out how to get through it without losing sleep, but there you go, I am nervous already!  I imagine with my nerves will possibly come worry.  I worry that when the start pistol goes off, that there will be these invisible concrete shoes that I will wear for 21 km.  Like in your dreams when you are trying to run somewhere, but can't run at normal speed, you are like molasses asses.  Or trying to talk, but the words don't come out.  I just hope I can be relaxed enough to be present in my body, feeling free to just run out of pleasure.  I have a certain performance I would like out of the experience, but to enjoy it and take on the challenge with joy, that is another thing.  This is voluntary after all!  We shall see.

I am contemplating tapering, it is a foreign and scary thing.  More to come on that too.  I am happy to say that my friend Jeremy is looking like he is good to go, it was a bit iffy whether his Achilles was going to take him out of the race.  Good journey on that one, bro!

1/2 Marathon Training

Goal= 1:40 (ish)I am going for my very first 1/2 marathon on Oct. 11 in Kelowna, B.C.  My time yesterday on my long run was right in line with what I hope to accomplish.  I clocked myself at 1:38:16 !!  This was well beyond how I hoped.  I pushed myself, but no wretching or gagged happened, so that is good, and I feel good today, not too sore at all.  If I am able to do this, I would be in the top 100 of the event.  Here's to trying!  Much of it will be psychological for me.  I have good hopes though. How exciting!