How's your leg?

Training for long distance running has really made me think about how my horse feels when we train for long distance riding.

I am aiming to complete the half marathon in Ottawa at the end of May. Here is what I have learned so far:

1. You might have a sore muscle even if you aren't lame and there is not heat or swelling. So sometimes taking a few days off "for no apparent good reason" makes good sense.

2. You need good equipment. My shin splints have disappeared since I bought a new pair of runners.

3. When you train faster than usual, it makes your usual pace seem easy.

All of this seems self-evident when you stop and think about it. The challenge is putting it into practice.

"Constant, you should be."
 - Yoda

Use your Garmin. Track your runs/rides. Write a few notes about how you (and your horse) are feeling. Analyze and adjust your plan if necessary. Take a break here and there for no apparent reason.

I keep going back to this blog by Kevin Myers after his stellar 2012 Tevis experience.
And  I keep re-reading Dennis Summers' book, The 4th Gear.
4th-gear-here-we-come by Kevin Myers

The formula seems easy. The proof is in the pudding.

Show up.
Put it into practice day after day after day.
Even when winter just won't go away!!
Late season storm targets Ontario and Quebec