A wise person (Dr. Norris) announced to a group of runners training for distance, that in training and sport (and probably life) – weddings are optional, funerals are mandatory.  The meaning behind such a strange statement is clear.  Sometimes the things we are good at are the first things we choose to do but are the last things that we need to do.  Speed work, strength training or high intensity work is mostly not much fun – like funerals to some.  They require reaching beyond any semblance of ‘comfort’ and digging deep.  By doing this work though, one likely works on one’s weaknesses. 

Recently, I’ve had an opportunity to participate in a research study at the University of Calgary.  The protocol includes: a cycling VO2Max test to measure baseline, followed one week later with another VO2Max test with 500ml less blood in my system (which felt terrible by the way), followed by 3 weeks of recovery.  Then – the hard work.  Initially, I thought – “how hard can it be”?  The reality has been an eye-opener.

Eight weeks of very hard training doing exactly what I never do.  High intensity interval training on the bike.  I generally avoid it like the plague – telling myself that ‘I’m just not competitive’, ‘I’m really not training for anything – so why bother?’, ‘I think I’ll do a long steady swim instead’.  Yah, lots of excuses.  I’m an expert at excuses.  Anything to stay in a comfortable zone. 

This is not the first time, nor will it be the last time that I am reminded that I have a lot more to give, even when it feels like I’ve given it all.  I seem to recall wind-sprints at the end of basketball practice in High School.  I was always the last to finish – until I wasn’t.  The look on my face probably mirrored my coach’s face – utter disbelief.  Her only comment was something to the effect of ‘now we know’. 

The final bit of this research study includes a repeat of the two VO2Max tests as above.  One new baseline and one with 500ml blood extracted.  I suspect that I will see an improvement in my VO2Max results.  I’d better because this training has been tough.  Oddly however, I’ve embraced it and look forward to seeing the results. 

Maybe it’s time to revisit a few more of my weak areas. 

LiveSplendidly!