In looking at the current state of my journey down The Road to Ironman Louisville, I've included my thoughts in the areas of swimming, cycling, running, being, and general thoughts on The Road.
Swimming: My yardage is slowly increasing and I'm becoming more efficient with my swim stroke. I'm also feeling more confident in bilateral breathing. At one point I wasn't sure if I could cover 500 yards while bilateral breathing, and tomorrow I'm looking to go 2,000! My drills are going well, which I do twice a week. My pieces and parts that allow me to swim seem to be strong.
Cycling: The weather is starting to turn which is allowing me more outdoor riding opportunities. This past week I really took advantage and I covered 110 miles, with my longest ride being 40 miles. There is still some getting used to with my GURU. It doesn't have the same get-up-and-go as my Litespeed, and we are not completely comfortable with eachother yet, but we are still building our relationship. Some tweaks may need to be made with my position, but I'm being patient for now. I think I need more rides in warmer weather and when I'm ready...a time trial. These things should help me get a better handle on the situation.
Running: This is my biggest concern, and if you have been following, you already know. My right Achilles tendon is not at full strength and provides a dull, nagging discomfort when I run. Some runs are better than others. In fact, the other day I thought I was headed in the right direction because I barely noticed the discomfort. Yesterday however, the dull pain was there...just looking at me in an innocent, it's not my fault, kind of way, saying "What?"
Being: It's hard for me to gain full confidence in how my overall training is going, regardless of my gains, when my Achilles is holding me back. I don't feel complete. I'm trying not to let that slip into my mind. The good news is that when I'm swimming and cycling I feel strong and like my normal self. However, in down times, I'm not usually dwelling on my success, I'm focused on my weakness. I try not to let depression seep in, but from time to time, it does. It's often short lived because I will recognize it and send it away, but it still detracts from my focus on The Road.
The Road: The road is being traveled, and dispite my setback, the road is worthwhile, rewarding, exciting, and inspiring. My mind is still very much occupied by the journey and my eyes are still focused on The Road to Ironman Louisville.
Thanks to all of you who have been supportive and inspiring, and continue to be as much. I do lean on you, even when you don't realize it to. If you are not sure if I'm talking about you...I am. If you are reading this, then I draw inspiration from you.
Peace,
~Sam
Although it's difficult for all of us, I think you've just got to focus on what is directly in your control (the swim and the bike, and hopefully your Achilles rehabilitation... do you know how long it'll take?)
ReplyDeleteBest of luck :)
Hope that you continue to recover. I know how irritating soft tissue injures can be to tolerate! Have you tried Biofreeze to help with the pain? Here's my post about it http://tinyurl.com/5sh45sl
ReplyDeletekrystyna-Thanks for the support. I don't have a time table on "recovery". I'm just taking a day at a time.
ReplyDeleterunnergirl-Thank you for your support as well. I do have biofreeze, but I haven't been using it because I haven't wanted to mask an discomfort...yet. I want to be very aware of what's happening. That may be coming soon however. It's a good product.
Peace.