I had been using an online coaching program up until a few weeks ago. It didn't work out for me personally and by chance just after this an opportunity came up with a coach I initially enquired with a year ago... It wasn't an option then due to him being maxed with athletes and only able to allocate space if he has the time to coach to the level he expects of himself.
I asked to be put on a waiting list but didn't think too much of it after a while.
So onto a couple weeks ago and by chance an opportunity finally came up. I say by chance as I had just finished with the online coaching program and was debating what to do next.
So it started with a trial few days/week and see how it went for both of us before deciding to continue. It was tough, but very enjoyable and showed me a whole new level of coaching/training possible.
Group training sessions were part of the schedule and this made for a better dynamic, both socially and competitively.
Swimming was upped in distance/time compared to my recent schedule but I worked hard to keep up.
Biking added a layer of intensity that I hadn't been using in recent training, so this was naturally a bit harder but manageable and again very enjoyable in the group dynamic also.
Running was a nice combination and also some strength/stretching work added that I definitely need.
Overall, the week ended at 19 hours training completed. A new Bike FTP test showed increased Watts per KG now up to 3.99, and I felt great from the whole week.
I really enjoyed this training method, and saw the coach 7 times in 1 week!
During these, I got technique tips, help in all areas and also better understanding of what's important and what I need to work on.
I came away from the week thinking great, that was a very valuable week's training and I really enjoyed it. I already feel more aware of my training and more determined to improve.
So I was delighted when Coach agreed to continue and I now feel I'm into a whole new level of training. I can't wait to get more time in this coaching group and see how much I improve.
In terms of my overall training, I'm now into Base 3 in terms of overall plan. This isn't regimented per say, but matches in that intensity is now coming on board more and some more systems being touched/worked on ready for the harder work in weeks ahead.
This week see's reduced hours as last week was a big week, and also I finish with doing Hell and Back 10km adventure run on Sunday 29th January.
That reminds me, my current runners of choice Adidas Adizero Boston 2's are reaching end of life. I've done around 500km in them and used them a lot. They have been a nice light and comfy runner.
I'm tempted to repeat with a pair of Boston 3's, however have a hankering for some Saucony's - there's a couple models I like and am going to pop in for gait analysis to see if any of them suit or what is recommended for me next.
I'm going to use the Adidas on Sunday for Hell and Back where they will most likely end up straight in the bin from what I hear! Swamps, rivers, pits, etc makes for a nice way to end their life I think!
Happy Training!