Ask Bill: Tough Schedule
As featured in the issue of Running Times Magazine
Q: Hi Bill,
I am near the top of the 60-64 age group and have launched on a program for the the next four months of racing every weekend plus getting in a long run of some 18+ miles. I do this the day after the race relying on the delayed onset muscle soreness. After three weeks of this I've hit a snag with a sore back and left hamstring. I get a massage most weeks inspired by your example. I won my age group at beach to Beacon last week and am about to leave for Falmouth. I have a local but highly competitive race in NYC next week followed by Crim, New Haven, Philadelphia & Cow Harbor. I hope to break 2:56 at The Ocean State Marathon. My question is how do you hold up to your race schedule and appearance duties and what advice would you have for me? I am in my own business and work a sixty hour week. I won at Falmouth, Crim, New Haven 20k, Las Vegas and Broad Street last year.
--Jack Brennan
A: Hi Jack,
I don't think you need any advice from me! Congratulations on your terrific racing success! I think the danger for folks who push as hard as you and I do is we let our personal lives slip a bit, at least I have done that! On the other hand you have found your Muse, your excellence to aim for, so you are a lucky fellow! I know living in a quiet environment helps me recharge my batteries, as does a break from racing and speed work for two months every Winter. I'm now thinking of a speed work break in late Spring after my initial 5-6 races of the season.
Best Wishes,
--Bill Rodgers
PS Wasn't Falmouth a great race this Year!?