Today's entry is all about the power of pushing through the hard workouts and the grind of training for this Ironman race. Let me tell you, it's been a rollercoaster of doubts and triumphs.
Sunday mornings, especially with those brick workouts, feel like stepping into the lion's den. The self-doubt creeps in - "Can I really cover ~50 miles today? Am I strong enough for this?" But I've learned to face it head-on. Running those first miles after a long cycle, legs like jelly, I questioned my sanity. But you know what? The more I kept at it, the more I saw progress. It's not just physical strength; it's mental resilience building up.
Fear comes in waves during these sessions, too. The fear of not being able to finish, the fear of pushing my body too far. Yet, every time I lace up my running shoes after a tough ride, I'm proving to myself that fear can be conquered. The power is in facing it, feeling it, and still moving forward.
Around the midpoint of these grueling sessions, exhaustion becomes a constant companion. It's like a marathon of pushing limits. The legs ache, the lungs burn, and I question why I put myself through it. But just like in life, pushing through exhaustion unveils a strength you didn't know you had. Each pedal stroke and every stride becomes a victory over the challenges, a step closer to the Ironman dream.
As I sit here with tired muscles and a satisfied mind, I get it now. Training for an Ironman isn't just about crossing the finish line; it's about transforming into a person who can take on whatever life throws. The doubts, the fears, the exhaustion—they're tools sculpting a version of me that's tougher, more resilient.
Tomorrow starts a new week of training, new distances to conquer. It's not just about the Ironman; it's about becoming the kind of person who doesn't back down from a challenge.
Wishing you all the best on your journey,
NH
