Stay Positive, Stay Focused

I make mistakes, I am out of control and at times hard to handle. But if you can't handle me at my worst, then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best. - Marilyn Monroe

My training is out of control and hard to handle right now.

I am feeling neurotic and insecure about the fact that there are only 11 weeks until my next marathon and my calf is limiting my running.  Limiting my running at a time when I was seeing and feeling significant increases in my speed (-30 sec/mile) over medium distances.  I really think I could translate some of that speed into longer distances if I can keep up the training, resulting in a smashing PR.

But to heal my calf, I need to back off on the intervals that made me faster, cut back on some distance that were making me stronger.  For me that is sheer torture.   I am usually the furthest thing from tentative, diving into new projects, adventures, training, and challenges head first, full steam, making tons of mistakes, enjoying some successes, and flailing in the process.  I usually come out dirty, bruised, and already planning how I would do it different next time.  This calf thing has me a little confused, a little unsure of myself for the first time. 

But Marilyn made me straighten up a little - if I can't handle training when it is at its most challenging, then I don't deserve training when it is at its best.   Really, I have been spoiled by very few injuries (knocking on wood) and my biggest limitation in training has always been myself.  So I had a curve ball thrown my way, big deal.  I need to HTFU, as Jon (another Timberman entrant) over at SwiCycloRun did on his last bike/run in the freezing rain brick - thanks for that post Jon, loved it!

I am going to switch gears a little, still busting my buns to get stronger and faster, staying positive, staying focused.  On tap for this week - 1 run (just take it easy, see how it feels), 4 rides, renewed focus on strength training, yoga, and a 3 day Baxter Park trip.