by Coach Sandi & Coach Sage | Dec 18, 2023 | Uncategorized
“Today, I want to share a story that takes us back to the Canyons 100k, an event that unfolded about two years ago, where things didn’t quite go as planned.
At the time, I was really excited for the Canyons 100k, with the allure of a mostly uphill course, starting at 1,000 feet and reaching 5,000 feet. It was a challenge I was ready to tackle head-on. But, as life often teaches us, plans can take unexpected turns.
The decision not to participate in Canyons 100k was a tough one. Despite my excitement, a nagging feeling told me I wasn’t at my optimal performance level. A recent revelation about my ferritin levels being lower than usual served as a crucial insight into my physical condition.
I believe there were two factors contributing to this decline: my recent move to 7,000 feet in altitude and an oversight in adjusting my iron supplement regimen. Altitude has a known impact on ferritin levels, and a delayed blood test only compounded the issue. Lesson learned, albeit the hard way. I’ve known from past experiences that high altitudes pose challenges.
The second reason was a bit of a facepalm moment – I switched to an iron supplement that wasn’t as potent as my previous one. Silly mistake, but it happens.
Now, let’s rewind a bit further to my journey in refining my running form. About three years ago, during the Black Canyon 100K series, I opened up about reshaping my motor patterns after dealing with a chronic Achilles injury. Those childhood patterns of being pigeon-toed and walking on my toes haunted me and probably contributed to my Achilles issues.
While most days my form felt on point, bad days still snuck in. A race a month before Canyons 100k left me feeling off-kilter. Entering a 100k without 100% confidence in my body just didn’t sit right with me.
Reflecting on this journey from two years ago, setbacks happen, even to the most seasoned runners. What matters is how we respond. Here are a few timeless takeaways:
1. Prioritize Health : No race is worth compromising your well-being. Regular check-ups and listening your body’s signals should be non-negotiable.
2. Altitude Awareness : Living and training at high altitudes comes with challenges. Stay informed, consult professionals, and keep tabs on your health.
3. Embrace Adaptability : My journey post-injury highlights the importance of adapting. Embrace change, refine techniques, and be patient with progress.
As I reflect on Canyons 100k from two years ago, I’m grateful for the running community’s support. We’re bound by resilience and a shared love for the sport. Here’s to the journey!”
by Coach Sandi & Coach Sage | Dec 4, 2023 | Uncategorized
He share’s his thoughts on managing illnesses, mitigating the risks of injuries, and maintaining a balanced approach to training.
“As we head into the thick of the season where sniffles and flu bugs abound, I thought it pertinent to share some insights on how to navigate the tricky terrain of marathon training (or really any other distance) when you find yourself under the weather.
Firstly, let me acknowledge that illness is no stranger to the running community, especially during the winter months. Now, I’m not a doctor, so it’s crucial to consult with a medical professional for personalized advice. However, I’d like to share some wisdom gleaned from my nearly 25 year running career.
Imagine this scenario: you’re a month away from trying to achieve a sub-three-hour marathon, and a nasty bug decides to sneak up on you. What’s a runner to do? The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all, as it depends on various factors, such as the severity of your illness, the type of infection (bacterial or viral), and your individual immune system response.
Let’s break it down. If you’re dealing with a minor cold—sniffles, a mild sore throat, maybe a headache, but no fever—you might be able to continue activity, albeit with some adjustments. Dial back the intensity, skip the hard VO2 Max workouts, and opt for at least two days of easy jogging. Keep an eye on symptom progression and adjust your training accordingly.
Now, if it’s a more serious infection with high body temperature, fever, severe coughing, and body aches, hitting the pause button becomes imperative. Take at least one or two days off entirely, allowing your body the rest it needs. Gradually ease back into training with light jogging, paying close attention to how your body responds.
Drawing from personal experience, I recall preparing for the North Face 50-mile endurance challenge when the flu decided to crash the party. A solid five days of complete rest were in order, and let me tell you, it’s better to be overly conservative during these times. Rushing back into training can set you back more than you’d think.
Now, let’s talk about cardiovascular fitness. The fear of losing gains during a few days off can be daunting, but rest assured, a short break won’t send you spiraling. It’s better to take a few days off and return almost 100 percent than to risk exacerbating an illness.
Moving on to injuries, it’s essential to differentiate between manageable muscle soreness and more serious issues. Ice, easy days, and cautious running may suffice for mild tendonitis, but a stress reaction or a full-blown muscle tear demands attention. Listen to your body, consult a specialist, and don’t play hero when it comes to injuries.
In summary, navigating illness and injury during marathon training requires a delicate approach of listening to your body, seeking professional advice, and embracing a conservative approach. Remember, it’s okay to hit the pause button; your long-term success is worth it.”
