It has been nearly 7 months since I last updated this blog and I thoroughly regret that. A lot has happened in those 7 months and the various (and by various, I mean overwhelming amount of) tweets along the way haven't done my training any justice during this time. So, without wasting any more time and space, let's begin...
Before I get into my training, I just wanted to insert a short blurb about the vacation I took. I was offered the incredible opportunity to attend all 8 days of the US Olympic Trials this summer. It was the most incredible experience I have ever had and was a huge motivator for me going into the summer/fall. I got some autographs from eventual Olympic medalists and was able to meet some well-known runners along the way. I hope to be there again in 4 years, but as a competitor, not a spectator.
Now, back on track, for starters, I redshirted this cross country season, along with 2 of my teammates. As a result, it has been over 10 months since the last time I raced with a uniform on. If you're wondering why I redshirted, I can assure you it was not because of injury (I have been VERY fortunate thus far to avoid any serious injuries). Last winter, as we looked forward to this year, my coach and I knew it would not be a particularly strong year team-wise. Although we brought in a valuable transfer and one of our upperclassmen (both of which were the guys who redshirted with me) was finally healthy, the transfer runner (Vince Hamilton) was still recovering from a stress fracture he obtained the previous spring and the upperclassmen (Simon Sorensen) was still in the process of getting back into shape following his injury from the 2011/2012 school year. Since we would be lacking in firepower, and I was still trying to develop into a more competitive D1 runner, my coach decided to redshirt us all to save our strength for the next few years. With (hopefully) a strong recruiting class this spring, we look to put together a very talented and competitive team in the fall. So, in short, I redshirted to help make sure my remaining years of eligibility are used to help a competitive team (and to give me a 5th year for school purposes).
With my redshirt season came a long process of building aerobic strength. Over the long course of many weeks, I began to increase my weekly mileage to new levels. By the end of my cross season (I raced unattached in 4 races), I reached 90 miles/week for the first time in my career. During this time, I dropped my 8k PR to 24:46, and left the fall feeling strong and ready to take the next step in my racing.
Despite the numerous positives that occurred during this time frame, I had a few minor setbacks post-cross. Following cross, I took my normal week break. When I returned, I had an easy 30 mile week ahead of me, but all of a sudden, I was slammed with a terrible cold. After visiting the doctor and getting some antibiotics, it eventually subsided and I went on my way. No more than 2 weeks later, I was slammed yet again with a very similar feeling illness which took me out for a few days again. It subsided as well, but then the first week of my winter break brought on another round of illness. After another doctor visit and more antibiotics, and more missed days, I was able to get going again. However, the constant battle to get well left my body a bit rundown and I was forced to drop back on my mileage to counter that fatigue. I should have been at 90 miles last week and this week, but I am only at 80 right now and will be here through next week as well. This, coupled with a long battle with my insomnia these past few weeks, has been frustrating, but I feel confident that I will be back to 100% by the time I need to race (which is this weekend). Track is a long season and there is plenty of time to get into shape, especially since outdoor is the main focus.
With all said and done, I feel confident about these upcoming indoor and outdoor seasons. Workouts have generally been going well and I am beyond excited to finally race in uniform again. Hopefully I will remember to write more often this season, so keep a look out for the next update!
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