If you are an runner, triathlete or athlete with annual goals, you know about building your base during the Winter. I will admit, that this year is the first time I've ever worked to build a base.
The seasons before 2006, I just hammered away with the intensity of the normal season. Dumb. Don't do it.
Planning for 2006, I had a few choices to make. Is 2006 the year I tackle my first Ironman? If not, what is my A race? What specific goals do I have?
After receiving a "hall pass" from Tara for an Ironman for 2006 and discussing my goals with my training partners, I decided that I needed to wait until 2007 for my Ironman. My company recently sold and there are just too many responsibilities that I need to focus on to fully commit to Ironman training.
I decided that I would join the H2F training group of Dallas Athletes and focus on improving my swim and getting my daily nutrition nailed down (read Schedule and Goals).
I've been spending on average, 3 workouts a week on my swim; mainly working on my balance, arm entry and quieting my kick. My nutrition is now a function of my entire day; eating a minimum of 160 grams of protein a day and fueling every 2 to 3 hours.
The base miles on the bike have been averaging about 18mph and in my Endurance HR Zones.
The way I'm thinking; if I can build my base this season, improve my swim, nail down my daily nutrition, lower my weight to around 160lbs and get my body fat around 9/10%, I'll be set up for an Ironman in 2007 just fine.
As they say, it's a marathon, not a race. However, the triathlete really doesn't ever have a finish line. There's always tomorrow's workout and next week's training plan.
Hold me accountable and I'll keep you updated.
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tags: triathlon | training | dallas athletes
