I think 6 sessions per week should be the cap. It’s then a case of how we utilise those 6 sessions per week. Some weeks can be 4 runs, and 2 S&C sessions (ASPT included). Other weeks you might want to get out on the bike and only run 3 times. Or other weeks you might want to ditch the strength work.
Anything more and the risk of injury is too high. But I think if we are in constant communication, mainly about when you want to get out on the bike, that gives me the information to tweak the following weeks schedule before I post it.
A couple of things I would like to address. Stretching (Flexibility). So important in my book. It’s no surprise to see some of the quickest runners in the team are the most flexible. I’ve added in a 10-15 minute stretching routine each day to my training plan. It was a chore at first but now I look forward to it. It’s made a big difference for me. If time allows then I would highly recommend it. Obviously there will be days when you’re really tired and can’t fit it in, but generally 10 mins a day can make a big impact, not just on your running either, but general well being. I include quite a few yoga poses in my routine.
Recovery is so important for running. I’m obviously not in a position to tell you what to eat and of course life’s too short not to indulge from time to time. But if you’re working really hard on your fitness and fuelling with the wrong food, you’re undoing a lot of the good work, which is kind of bonkers. So perhaps trying to find a slightly better balance there might help.
The other aspect is your lack of confidence as a runner (Mental). I’m not sure where that comes from and I’m a little disappointed in myself that I’ve not been able to address that during our time together. But now it’s high on my priority list.
In my eyes you are an absolute warrior to achieve what you do with the setbacks you’ve had, not just recently but with all the other problems you have to deal with. That to me is far more impressive than a quick parkrun time.
The other thing that might help is to think of your 2 sons. Hopefully this comes across in the right way but they are two fine lads and they are from your genes, you created them. If you can channel that into your own running to be proud of yourself, then that should give you confidence. Would they have run the HHM this year if mum wasn’t a runner? Who’s to say.
Each time you head out for a run we want that positive mindset. Don’t compare yourself with other runners in the club, but with normal people, who don’t have your determination to exercise every day, look after yourself and work hard. That’s amazing. Own it!!
Run tall and proud!
