Thursday, August 23, 2012

August 2012 - A fresh start in Colorado Springs


Here we are, Colorado Springs, a reasonably small city with quite some nice historical brick buildings in the downtown area. The contrast with Charlotte, NC is noticeable. No skyscrapers in the city center, no emerging financial center in the US and the world, (almost) no businessmen in smoking hot suits. No, our first impression is that this city provides us relaxing atmosphere within the Rocky Mountain area.

Our new address is – location wise – a straight A. Easy access to Nathalie`s university and the Interstate that cuts the city in half. As such, we have a smooth commute to the different training locations across this city that hosts one of the US Olympic Centers.
The relocation is not the only fresh start. After some consideration, I joined the training group of Scott Simmons / Renato Canova. The elite athletes of the training group are part of the emerging American Distance Project. Most of the athletes focus on XC/long distance covering 5k up to the marathon. However, there are some good middle distance runners in the team as well. I will definitely have some sparring partners over here!

Ok, this will not be a high altitude training camp for me. Due to nature of the business that I`m in, working at a client location is the standard. As such, travel will still be a big part of my week planning. Most likely, I will spend 3 nights / 4 days at sea level and go back to 6,400 ft. (1,950 m) altitude for 4 nights / 3 days. This means, that it will take me longer to adapt to the altitude, but we have all the time it needs.

There is no drastic change in directions and I will not focus on longer races. The only thing that I want back is the pleasure of doing races. Just know that my body is ready to perform. Right now, the altitude is quite brutal to us and we need some time to adapt. My first mile repeat confronted me with the fitness level that I need to start working from. It will be challenge, but I accept it. Let`s go! 

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