Highs, Lows, and Patience
Since it is a new year it seems only fitting to reflect on the past year of my running. In doing so I have realized that, especially looking back to two years, it has been a roller coaster of highs and lows.
After winning the Rochester Marathon at the end for 2008 I had a series of nagging injuries for the better past of a year, had inconsistent training, and was running sub-par times. I would have glimpses of regaining my previous fitness level, only to be frustrated by another minor injury or poor performance. After running nearly 5 minutes slower in my second half marathon than my debut enough was enough. I was recommended to a massage therapist through one of my friends and a chiropractor through the massage therapist, both of whom I had sessions with throughout June-October of 2010. My coach who I took on in December of 2009 (before then I was self-coached) continually stressed the importance of recovery days (I tend to push easy days) and patience. Before I had known it I had strung together a series of consistent training months, won a couple of races, finished second at the Empire State Games Road Race, was beating people I had no business beating, and had a 5k PR to my name.
Faced with another injury to start 2011 (I normally am not very injury prone) the lesson that I wish to pass along to all athletes is stay focused and be patient. Whether you are recovering from an injury/sickness or frustrated with performances that are not personally satisfying, not letting it get you down is key to future success. Trusting in your coaches and your training will payoff in the long run. This is the hardest thing for a competitive athlete (even myself) to accept. There are no shortcuts, no special workouts, and no substitute for consistent, smart training over time. One bad race, or series of bad races, does not mean that there is not light just around the corner at the end of the tunnel. Just don’t let it get to you.
-Coach Rappleyea-
