http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2010-02-04-exercise_N.htm Exercise won't boost endurance for 1 in 5
Of the many articles I read and/or shared over the past week on triathlon, health, and exercise, this one struck me the most. Perhaps it got my attention given that my post last week dealt with the fact that genetics makes up such a big part of our individual ability in racing.
What I liked most about the article is found in the second paragraph: “Still, the authors caution, their findings shouldn't be an excuse to throw away the running shoes.”
It’s important to look at what this article REALLY says. It says that 80% of us, most of us, WILL see a boost in endurance from exercise. And given that only some 1% of us even care about boosting our endurance, this is good news. Most people exercise for health and for losing weight. The few who want to boost their endurance for racing are the small minority.
Don’t get too caught up in the numbers. As one of my ex bosses used to say, “Numbers can be made to say anything.” Don’t let the research numbers, the heart rate, the power meter, the speed, the cadence, the foot strikes per minute, strokes per lap keep you from doing what you want and achieving your personal goals. All these are important to continued improvement, but don’t let yourself get so caught up in them that they actually inhibit your training. Once in a while, get on the bike and just ride. Don’t worry about the speed, cadence, or wattage. Get in the pool and swim for enjoyment. Forget about the stroke count. Put your shoes on and go for a run without your heart rate monitor and speed sensor. Look around. Enjoy the outdoors. Listen to the sounds around you. Feel the weightlessness in the water. Get back to the basics. Remember what it was like to go for a bike, run, or swim for fun, like when we were kids. You may find that you actually make greater improvement and the science was just holding you back.
Monday 1 hour strength and balance workout
Tuesday Off
Wednesday 30 minute run with speed intervals
Thursday Off
Friday 30 minute bike trainer session
Saturday 45 minute run (went .2 miles further and negative split…endurance and speed are already increasing after only three weeks back)
Sunday 1 hour bike ride on trainer (pushing a bigger gear than all last year at the same intensity)
Look forward to seeing Claude this week. He’ll be in Austin tomorrow and we have two dinners scheduled this week. Maybe we can even get out for a run or swim.
Make it a great week! Kia Kaha!
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