I often wonder if from an outside perspective my life seems boring. Do the staff at my gym who see me there morning, afternoon and night think “wow, he’s dedicated??” or “someone needs to get a life!” I can’t argue so far this year that I’ve fallen victim to the same routine week-in and week-out. Same workouts, same sleep patterns, same meals, same weekend activities… But I also can’t lie that I LOVE IT! It is what I enjoy most in the world to do and my diligence has made me stronger than I can remember in recent years. I have no excuses now and despite all the ‘stuff’ I am very happy and satisfied.
Looking forward to St George this weekend I have nothing but excitement in me. A Worlds spot is out of the way, podium or PR no longer seem to matter. What so strongly entices is the rare promise of racing all out without any apprehension, and in peak form. I still have two wolfs contending on each shoulder. One says “pace yourself” the other “go harder!” and both are my friend because either way I have my perfect day or learn something new.
When it comes to what’s truly boring my greatest enemy is what’s familiar. 1:20/100y, 260 watts and 6:20 pace are all achievable but perhaps I’m capable of more. The risk of blowing up seems less when you’ve got nothing to lose. I’m reminded of my favorite race quote back from my collegiate Cross Country days ““The only pace is a suicide pace and today’s a good day to die” – Prefontaine. This weekend I give I all I’ve got, we shall see what happens…
My pain cave – 5-6 days a week on the trainer (3 brick minimum)
My weekly Workout Routine – building intensity and duration week by week
My weekly run course – mostly all soft surface
My go-to weekend meal – salmon and broccoli all day!
I don’t think it makes you boring. Having a schedule to rely on, and feeling passionate about it is a good thing. The only caveat is you have to make sure you are not always prioritizing training over social, family, work, etc. Lots of us athletes — me included — have to work on this, too! : )
Great point!! I find that when I’m happy I’m better with friends and family, but it’s important and up to me to make time for them 🙂