Sub Optimal Training

Sub Optimal Training. It really does work!! So, this is a training method that I’ve developed, it’s really about building mental strength and coping when things don’t go to plan in a run. The key concept is about training outside your comfort zone and trying to create scenarios that may happen during a run. It gives confidence that anything can be worked through, and having experienced it whilst training it gives confidence if it happens during a run. Some examples from my weekend ultra and where my sub optimal training paid off.

Blisters – I had blisters within the first 10k of the 55k. I’d trained with fresh blisters and whilst it’s uncomfortable it’s actually OK.

Hills – There were lots of hills on Saturday. I’d gone out of my way to train on hills, even back to back sessions on tired legs. One scenario replayed in my head where I was actually on my bike, my legs were dead and there was a never ending hill in front. I kept my head down and knew that it didn’t matter how fast I was going, I would eventually reach the top.

Flies – There were flies on Saturday, and they were pestering me during a difficult climb (I was already struggling so the flies were an added annoyance). One of my training sessions had several hours of hundreds of flies. Saturday was easy after experiencing that.

Tired legs/body – I’ve done several back to back training sessions, these helped simulate what it was like to have done 30k and still have 25k to go.

Fuel – I’ve deliberately gone out of my way to run with little/no fuel. I’ve hit the wall during training. Knowing my limits has helped me identify the early signs of running out of fuel. On Saturday I never experienced any issues. I ate at every station, even if I wasn’t hungry. I hydrated really well and took my time to ensure I was stocked up between each aid station.

Lack of sleep – The lead up to most events there isn’t much sleep. I’ve trained after nights out, 4 hours sleep and so on. It’s knowing that it’s OK to start a race tired and that it will actually wake you up as you progress.

Weather – one thing I know I can’t change is the weather. It’s so important to train in every condition. During January I trained in mid to high 30s, it was great to learn the effects of the sun/heat on my body and hydration. It was hot on Saturday but not mid to high 30s so I knew it was OK.

The key concept is identifying opportunities to be really uncomfortable and going against all logic/common sense. There are always parts of the race that are mentally tough and it’s checking in with your body to see if there are actually any major issues, there rarely is so it’s literally just a feeling with no evidence.