So while the world kinda does back flips and spreads confusion and cooties, I, on the other hand am off to a flying start. I decided to change my training documenting. For years now I have kept a journal of a sorts and recorded my program, diet, outcome on training and thoughts and goals such as 'focus and process.' This year I simply bought a yearlong calendar and spent hours writing out a yearlong program.
Yep, I know. Very hard to write a program for a year and sail through it, injury and life get in the way. So, I wrote it out in pencil of course and gave myself permission to deviate under these circumstances, eraser at the ready. I have also given myself an 8-year-old kudos with stars as successful completion or application of the training. With rest days being Mondays and the year unfolding before me as a visual (stuck on the loungeroom wall) suddenly it seems do-able. With 8 stars already notched up, I'm feeling positive, ha, I know.......loooooong way to go! But there is no denying the work is there, visible to all, the commitment obvious as the days unroll and of course the multi coloured stars speaking volumes as I bank the training miles. Of course, Big Gazza has signed up as team Chef, Cheer Squad, Training Buddy and second Coach if I drop the ball on myself. I have decided to do this thing without a coach, some may say madness, but I'm feeling confident. There is a hint of a previous tried and true training program, with additional P.T, strength, balance and open water swims set by me and my love of spending time with my kid, The Amazing Waldo Pepper.
And then wham! Today we went out for an intended 100km IRL ride and I was feeling pretty good. Loads of energy. Captain was pushing the pace, so we were all out of our comfort zone pretty darn quickly. I don't get it. But anyway, I kept up and with that, blew up my knee. Worst it’s been in a long time. So, ice now for the next 2 days while we travel to Jindabyne for a training week away. I cut the 100 short, ended with 80. No point smashing it and not being able to back up on Monday with a trip up Charlottes Pass and Tom Groggins. So best intentions..... what have I learnt? Ride my own ride, don't stand up on the pedals for a while because that pisses the knee off. AND the 34-granny gear paid off for itself today as I left ol' mate behind on the hill. I know there was a moment where she was turning herself inside out to catch up. So happy.
