In our world of “get it quick” immediate gratification focus, it’s easy to forget that some things take time…sometimes they take A LOT of time. Endurance training is one of those things. It takes months (preferably years, actually) to get all the pieces aligned just right for a successful race day. And since Time is the one scarce resource, we can’t just keep adding to our plates. We have to ultimately answer the question: What will YOU give up for your race?
Sandy Vaughan has experienced this slower path to success first-hand. This season is her 3rd try at getting to the race start line. It’s been a learning process…a realization that you can’t have it all. You can’t just keep adding to your life. In the end you have to take away, you have to prioritize, you have to focus. I’m proud of you, Sandy! This is YOUR year!
In Sandy’s own words:
“Several years ago, I decided to train for an Ironman 70.3. To date I have signed up for 2 IM 70.3’s & started training for them. But unfortunately, my life always got in the way. I have yet to actually race one.
I am so fortunate to have 3 of my children & their families close by. Because of this I am full-time day care provider for my energetic little grandsons. Although I feel blessed to be very involved in my adult children’s lives, it has made training more difficult.
Hopefully the saying, ‘The 3rd time’s a charm’ is true! THIS is the year (pandemics, surgeries & illnesses aside) I will race my Ironman! When I AGAIN approached Coach Michelle for training help, she asked specifically what I planned to change to make my goal happen. I came up with…
- Family first, then training program.
- Fewer group runs & hikes…so I can get in the training that I need.
- Cut out tennis – I usually play on 3 teams.
- No stressing when/if I can’t do 100% of my weekly workouts.
- Focus on nutrition, strength, hydration & rest.
- Actually resting on ‘rest days’!
- Organize my grocery shopping & meal prep.
- Let go of some of the household chores (It’s OK not to have a perfectly clean house!).
My goal is to finish Ironman 70.3 Oregon in July. I know that my persistence will pay off. And regardless of what happens on race day, I am stronger both mentally & physically & I feel good about my physical abilities. But best of all, training has become a very FUN hobby!!”
If you’d like help figuring out what to cut back on in order to prioritize your training/racing, let’s chat in a 30min free Consultation!
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