Polar Performance Project and Goal Wrap Up – December 2016

In the spirit of efficiency, we are looking at two things today so I am going to try not to be long-winded. I wanted to take a quick look back at my training and racing in December and how I did on my goals before jumping into what I am aiming for in 2017 (coming up on Monday.)

Let’s hop to it!

Distance covered: 431 KM (cycling and running)

Training hours: 48

New/interesting places that I trained and raced: I sought out some really cool trails and paths in Florida and even nabbed some Strava course records!

Most memorable run: My first run in Florida and not in a good way. It was very hot, I had just taken down a bagel and I decided that it was a good time to head out on a run. Lack of digestion and the heat, combined with a tempo effort made it an uncomfortable and unforgettable experience.

Races:

Just one! I snuck in a trail half marathon on the last day of 2016.

Gear/Training

I used the Polar V800 to track all of my track work, outdoor cycles and runs this month.  I have been wearing my Polar M200 for a few workouts which is the new watch from Polar. I have tracked some of my training in the pool with the Polar A360.

I wore my New Balance 860s for all travel training and racing this month. They have become my go-to shoe as I build mileage.

I am a Performance Project athlete under the coaching of Dave Galloway.

I have been using TrainerRoad software on the bike.

Thoughts

Physical

It was my first month back to training and I was really proud of my progress. I’ve been taking it slow and steady with two workouts a week on the bike, one on the run, two on the swim and a long ride and a long run. Around that, I have steady state training in all disciplines and I am trying to add strength and a fourth swim session whenever I can. The more time in the pool, the better! I have been averaging about 10 hours a week and feeling really great – my body is absorbing the work and I feel really fresh. All of my weird niggles that I had when I first jumped back into training are gone.

Mental 

My confidence has really grown. I am nailing workout paces and feeling strong and adding new things to my mental tool box. Something I have really been working on this month is bringing intentionality and focus to each workout. Even if it is an easy run, I focus on being present and thinking about my form and cadence – every workout has a purpose both physically and mentally.

For January

I have put holiday parties behind me so hoping that I can settle into a good schedule of regular workouts and healthy eating. I am going to be slowly increasing volume over January and focusing on remaining injury-free and healthy!

I have no races planned for January – just steady, strong training.

Goals from December

If you recall, I had set a few personal goals for December. 

Visit my baby sister for Christmas in Florida

It was so good to see my little sister again and I was so encouraged by her progress. She is such a little fighter and I am proud of her.

Make my vision board for 2017

DONE! Check back on Monday for the list of goals for 2017!

Decorate my little pad for Christmas

I hung some strings of Christmas lights. That counts, right?

Stretch and strengthen my hamstrings every day

Not so much. But I am THRILLED to announce that all of the pain is gone and I am running with zero issues.

What was the highlight of your December?

Do you make a vision board?