06Jan11

Since the racing itch still doesn't seem to flare up like it used to and the thirst for balance has me deaf in one ear I've decided to go for the half million this year. I had a load of fun doing the 150,000' in 100 days and thought a longer, more balanced approach for a full year challenge could have huge benefits. When I decided to do the 150,000' last June I was confident in having the ability to be able to physically put in the vertical. The big challenge was going to be fitting it in with the crazy schedule I had. For this 500,000' I have the opposite situation, I will not be dealing with all the logistics of travelling and should be able to keep a very balanced approach throughout the year, but am wondering how difficult this will be physically. I am starting this year at a low point in fitness. I was very sick for 4-5 weeks in Nov/Dec and have just started running again about 2 weeks ago. I like this situation though, I think this way I can see a balanced build, hopefully peak during the summer, then enjoy the Fall with some relaxing runs in a state of some nice fitness. This would all be ideal and a much more balanced way than gettng out and trying to do 1,370'/day or 9,590'/week. Although there seems to be great balance in numbers that way, it creates a lack of balance in my life. Balance takes creativity and adjustments. Watch a kid balancing, hopping from one rock to another. Observe how the arms are out and the adjustments made each time she/he leans too far in one direction. That's balance! A goal of 1,370'/day is just plain drudgery. My plan is to let the 500,000' come to me, never forcing the numbers. Sure, I will put myself on trails/routes that help me get to 500,000, but I don't see myself going out for a 5,000' run just so I can be at 250,000' on July 1st ;-)