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Long course racing from a rookie perspective

new2703new2703
in General Training Discussions

As I prepare to load up the IM plan in preparation for my next race, I spent some time reflecting not just on my past race but also on my past training leading up to this race.  The one thing that stands out for me is that I need to do the distance work especially on the bike.  As rookie and someone who is essentially "coming off the couch", this is painfully obvious.  Leading up to my last race I was only able to do 2 rides of 5-6 hours in duration.  The first one was much harder as compared to the second.  Can we contribute this to better execution of bike?  Maybe. I also think there had to be some physiological adaptations that made the second one easier.  Part of me also thinks execution improves with tolerance.  Same with the run.  If I compare my distance running this year to last year, I've become a much better distance runner.  Yes partly because I became more fit but also because I spent more time doing the distance work.  This off season and leading up to the race, I was able to put in 8-10 runs of 17-20 miles in duration.  As a result my body became more tolerant and comfortable running the distance.

So as I get ready to start my training again, the one thing I will focus on is FTP work and FTP work with distance training.  The body has to develop a tolerance for working hard for a very long time.  With each effort and with proper rest and nutrition the body will adapt and grow stronger

 

Comments

  • Peter GreaggPeter Greagg
    Interesting reflections John.
    I found that after doing my first Big Bike Week that Saturday's and Sunday's bikes were much easier.
    I think that this was not only because of the increased 'long bike fitness', but also the increased mental strength from biking long day after day during the BBW.
    I also found the Race Rehearsals (and races) much easier after the BBW. To quote coach Rich "..after a while 112 miles just becomes another mark on the distance dial."
    FWIW, my BBW was 680 kms with 7500 metres of climbing and TSS of 1390 over 9 days, with a rest day midway through.
  • cgres123cgres123
    after a while 112 miles just becomes another mark on the distance dial."

    It is surely amazing what the body can accomplish when properly trained up!
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