Hard Yards

Very tough day on the bike today. The session absolutely flattened me. With sessions like this they talk about putting it in the bank, today I am not sure whether I put anything in the bank, or simply withdrew the lot. I don't feel all that bad though because with this session, crushing yourself is sort of the point.

The session had some long intervals, which whilst tough wouldn't usually be that much of a problem. The real kicker though was that the session started with 50 minutes of hill repeats. I am pretty sure that is what got me. I was okay for the first couple of intervals, but half way through the third one I exploded in a fairly spectacular way. At that point I was pretty sure I was toast and I was starting to figure out the quickest route home. However, by the time I had finished my between interval recovery piece I had decided that I would at least give the fourth and final interval a go. It wasn't pretty, and it wasn't great, but I got through it. It was a recovery that I am happy about. With 40km to go I was just about ready to call in the cavalry. But in the end I managed to get myself through all the pieces and the distance. I may have collapsed on my front lawn when I got home, but I think I had earned it. I am pretty happy with myself over that one.
 The tough session probably wasn't helped by the fact that today was about 37 degrees. By the time I got off the bike it was just past 11:00am, so well and truly on the way to being hot. I think that certainly played a part. It took me the better part of today to get hydrated again.
This afternoon was spent in the river having a swim. Probably about the nicest way to train on a 37 degree day. It was a good solid swim, fatiguing, but satisfying.

Tomorrow I have a long run on the cards. However, if I am honest with myself I don't think my back is up to it. The news from the physio yesterday was positive and reassuring, but it didn't miraculously make my back not sore. I am still having back pain when I walk. From where I am sitting now I just can't see how I can run with it. Or if I do, how it would be a good idea, the idea is to make it better, not prolong the niggle. Plus last time when I had my bulging disc, guess how that started. That's right a prolonged niggle. One day back a little sore, next day loss of muscle function in my right leg. Not an experience I am keen to relive. I will get up in the morning just to check whether the miracle back pain curing fairy has visited me in the night. But if she hasn't then I am not sure what my plan is. Water running perhaps??

Between work and injury, this week has been a bit of a lost cause training wise, however, there have been a few bright points, like the session this morning. I may not have gained much this week, but I also know that this week hasn't cost me much. All the same though, I am pretty keen to put it behind me and get on with next week and getting ready for Melbourne.