Comparison

I think it was in preparation for London ’07 that I followed Thomas’ lead and summarized my 12-week build for the marathon. I did it again for Boston…, which takes me to today, the RVM. The numbers themselves don’t speak volumes (perhaps I need better metrics), but still I find them entertaining.

Subjectively, I’ve been quite happy with my approach this time around. I think it was the simplicity of the program that I enjoyed the most. If you were to have asked me any other time, I probably would’ve told you I’d have wanted a complex schedule, something that pushed the envelop and forced me to walk that fine line. Keep the workouts varied and the body guessing. I suppose everyone wants to be different, special.

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But with a lifestyle that now appreciates the routine, the last twelve weeks have been surprisingly liberating. And what’s not to like. I’m injury free, my mileage is at a three year high, and yet I feel rested.

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Boston
Training: 12-week marathon build (11 weeks completed)
Cumulative distance (with a few yet to come): 984km/617 miles (1036km/650 miles)
Number of runs 32km (20 miles) or more: 3
Highest weekly volume: 7h51, 110km (69 miles)
Number of weeks over 130km (80 miles): 0
Number of PRs: 0

Injuries: left achilles (forced a reduction in miles)

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RVM

Training: 12-week marathon build (11 weeks completed)
Cumulative distance (with a few yet to come): 1100km/689 miles (1136km/712 miles)
Number of runs 32km (20 miles) or more: 4
Highest weekly volume: 10h03, 142km (89 miles)
Number of weeks over 130km (80 miles): 2
Number of PRs: 0, but then I only raced once in preparation
Injuries: none

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You could say that I’ve been tapering for the last four weeks, if by tapering you mean a consistent reduction in mileage. I’ve never understood when people (Chris) complain about not enjoying the taper. Maybe that speaks more to the training (sorry Chris). Yet today on my jaunt home, I felt horrible. I could’ve slowed down, but… well, I didn’t. I seem to remember the same route taking 41:XX the last time I ran it. Hum. Tomorrow’s session should bring some snap back to the legs.

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Four days and counting.

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Training:

Monday: day off (scheduled)

Tuesday: steady 38:52