Racing adjustments when getting over being sick! suggestions?
HI all, so here is the question. I'm set to race my first race of the season this weekend (IM 70.3 Chattanooga). Note I am one of those persons whose fitness/racing level is in the "i'm trying to make it to the end alive" group.
Training had gone OK though won't say fabulous. Last 2 weeks I've been miserably ill (you know, fluish....)I tried to run a little on sunday and ended up bailing after 1.5 miles drenched in a cold sweat, with absolutely nothing in the tank despite going a full 90sec/mile slower than usual....
I half though about possibly bailing on the race though now with the help of some rest and antibiotics slowly starting to get better.... ran today 4 miles and felt OK if not great.... IF things continue to improve thinking I might be able to attempt the race...
SO the Question: what changes to pacing/nutrition/strategy would you all suggest.... i definitely will not be 100% by sunday but might be back in the 60-70% range any thoughts I what could help make it through the race alive and to the end?
thanks for any and all ideas..
Naftali Presser
Comments
My first thought would be to make sure hydration and electrolytes are closely monitored no matter what else happens. Both before the race and during the race. During the race it may make sense to ignore pace and power metrics all together and pay close attention to HR and RPE only, using the other metrics only as a governor to make sure you never go too hard. I would think that if you are still sick or recovering your HR will tell the story. Race because it's fun and don't focus on the outcome. Take care of yourself and have fun!
I agree with @Sid Wavrin
Make sure your hydrated and Race by RPE. Have fun is the most important part.
I agree with Sid's advice. And add that I suspect you will do better (faster, less discomfort) than you fear. Some rest often does wonders to let the body respond to training stresses. Like an enforced taper.
Yes to ALL of that ^above^. Also, just be smart. There's a fine one between "I am working hard" And "my body is struggling to keep me upright under this effort"....stay on the right side of that and you'll find your way to the finish. If you have to stop, so be it...we'll sort you out on the other side. 👍
Great job getting it done on Sunday!
Thanks all for the advice and words! it kinda sucked, especially after 2 flats put me in dead last on the bike , delayed me >1hour and generally messed up any hope of meaningful pacing but at least I finally made it to the finish line ( apparently for me 4th times the charm!)
NP
Oh no! I'm sorry to hear about your flats! ARG!