It is here. The phantom aches, pains, soreness, the boredom, the hypochondria. Taper madness is in full swing and so far it’s only been three days. Monday was decent as I didn’t really feel any different, still had a swim and a speed run so it was a “normal” day.
Tuesday was a day off and due to the reduced workload lately and the day off it started. Boredom set it pretty fast, then the phantom aches and then the hypochondria. It was a terrible day. Wednesday was fine as I had a speed bike and a speed run so I could get out there and do something. I was looking forward to it all day. All day I was feeling terrible but as soon as the workouts were over I felt 100 times better.
This morning I got up and still felt great. I have a swim and a run tonight but tomorrow will be back to resting. It should be fine as I been taking Friday’s off anyway. Saturday will be different with “only” a 2 hour bike ride. Good thing I have a long list of things to start packing to keep me occupied. Sunday should be good as I have a 3.5 hour bike and a 1.25 hour run as well as more packing.
I’ve got plenty to keep my mind occupied over the next few days but taper madness is bound to creep in where it can. I learned a lot going through this last year and rather than worrying about those aches I am (trying) to let it roll off my back.
10 days and counting……
Isn’t it weird what the body does?
Great mindset man. I think you are spot on with your training and I cannot wait until I can say I “only” have a 2hr ride haha.
I’m excited for you – I know what IM taper is like :-)
The best advice I got before my first IM was to “enjoy every minute of the day” and to “be in the moment.” That means don’t worry about the bike while you’re in the water and don’t worry about the run when you’re on the bike. It also means that given the length of the race, you’ll hit highs and lows. Remember that the lows will pass. You may feel like crap 2/3rds of the way through the bike and start thinking, “How on earth am I going to run a marathon?” It’ll pass. Twenty minutes later you might be feeling great, so keep thinking happy thoughts, smile at the volunteers, stay with your race plan, and you’ll do awesome.
Looking forward to seeing you in Lake Placid next week.
Cheers,
Greg
Great advice Greg!
Matt I think taper madness is Endorphin whithdrawl :) Like any drug you get addicted to it and when you slow things down the lack of Endorphins makes you go crazy :) No science just what I think! Hahaa