Would you do it differently? Sitting here im torn with an answer for that question. Knowing full well that if I did get that second chance that the third chance would be in mind as well. There are so many driven and inspirational people out there, myself included that dont accept anything less then the best they have. They dont let adversity get in the way, they adapt and make due with what they have in front of them. Living in the now is the way to a content future.
Recently ive been searching for new training ideas and workouts and I came across this site: http://www.flotrack.org/
As I looked around I found a few videos of track/XC practices from far better programs then the one I had at University at Buffalo. Schools like Duke, UNC, Ark, G. Mason, and even CU (which is now right down the road from me here in Boulder). Aside from the initial shock of how beautiful the female athletes were, the coaches really knew their stuff. The athletes themselves were on a much higher level even as entering freshmen and able to keep up with the practices. Running is a nice sport because it doesnt require that much equipment, just some shoes and a stop watch. However, mastering the best combination of workout schedules, pace and distances can get a little tricky. Its obvious that all D1 athletes competing to get the NCAA marks are exceptional athletes to start with. They just have it in their blood from birth. It something that I would want my kids to have instilled in them when the time comes. Ive always been athletic, its always come easy to me. Ive grown to have a high tolerance for pain to get me to that higher level of workout. I know I can do it smarter though, talent is nothing unless its harnessed and molded. Ive always said that soccer players make the best athletes.
Here I am going from a background in the Pole Vault event, which is a very short sprint/throw event, to the multi-event endurance racing of Triathlon and IRONMAN. Its a total 180 switch of muscle usage, and im a bit timid about how its going to transform my body. Id like to gain a little bit of muscle mass and keep it, but thats not going to happen when im running 40+miles a week and biking over 100 (which is standard for this type of training). On top of that I have other interests that I want to hold on to such as Olympic lifting, rock climbing, soccer, skiing, snowboarding, and the occasional drink. That last one is almost forbidden when someone decides to step up to the next level.
The other thing Ive had to think about and plan on was the toll all this activity will have on my body, namely my joints. Id like to be able to play with those kids one day, and I do look better standing upright. So a happy medium is in order, and working smarter, not harder is the goal. There are a lot of resources out there at all levels. I challenge you to avoid a flat ass and square eyes and get outside!! They have great couch to 5k or marathon programs, you never know, it just may change your outlook on life. Using what you have been given includes testing the limits to your mind and body.
Thank you for the inspiration UNC, Duke XC girls. Good luck at nationals... call me!
