As we approach the end of January, I have been reviewing the training that I have done so far this year. I was determined to begin the year with consistent training, that included an increase in strength and mobility work. I am really happy with how it is going, especially after experiencing a slight niggle in my Achilles at the end of last year.
This year is very different to last year. Entering 2023, I knew we would be moving to Colorado during the year, so I couldn’t plan any races and my training had to take a back seat. This year is almost the opposite; my race schedule is coming together nicely and I have the freedom and time to train regularly.
My Calf Muscles Are Getting More Supple With The Mobility Work
As an athlete who is on the older side, it is getting more and more important for me, to include strength and mobility into my workout regimen. I have been doing quite well in this regard, having chosen to forgo swimming for a month or two, in order to increase this kind of workout.
I have been slowly increasing my run miles, as I attempt to avoid a reoccurrence of my Achilles issues. In the coming weeks, I will slowly add in some more intense runs, on top of the aerobic runs that I have been doing.
Improving bike strength has been my main focus for January. My FTP (Functional Threshold Power) had dropped a little after my ‘off season’ in November. I am therefore really happy to report, that my FTP has increased by about 5% in January. It is still not back to where it was, but I am confident there are a lot more gains to be made.
Taking Advantage Of Nice Days In Colorado
I am really looking forward to 2024. I have six races that I would like to do. They are not all triathlons. The biggest race of the year will be my last race of the year… the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in New Zealand. That isn’t until mid-December however, so I have almost a whole year of racing before I get to that race.
I Am Enjoying Cross Training Opportunities Too
