Train. Eat. Train. Eat. Train. Eat. Sleep. Repeat.

Yes, I do realize there are a few “Train’s” in that sequence, to which you could also add, class, physics homework, physics quizzes, and physics headaches. (Let’s just say it’s not my best subject)

Okay back to the real point. Training has been going absolutely fantastic lately!! I truly feel that my success has stemmed from how I use my time when not training. Lately, I have been even more conscious of my diet and timing of nutrients, as well as making sure that I get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. While this certainly heightens my status as a total Grandma, in bed on a Friday night by 8:30 for 5 a.m. Saturday swim practices, it’s been so worth it!

During a hard workout last weekend I had a seemingly obvious revelation. All those quotes like:

If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.

-and-

Pain is weakness leaving the body.

…they suddenly made sense to me. At least in my own way of applying them. Okay so I’m going to nerd out for a minute here, but physiologically it’s true. You can’t get stronger without first breaking down the muscles. When you are sore after a workout it means that you are changing your body for the better, breaking down the muscle fibers and rebuilding them stronger so the next session you can push yourself farther and faster.

Breaking down your body is essential for building it back up, but that also means that you have to allow yourself time to recover. Like I said before, I’m kind of a grandma, but that’s because to me it’s not worth suffering sleep deprivation for the next two days because I was out till midnight or later with friends. My goals are a lot bigger than that and in this sport your performance is reliant on consistent effort, not just a great swim one week and fast run the next. There are girls out there faster and stronger which means that I have to train harder and ultimately smarter. Which is why there are multiple “Train’s” in my routine. I love this sport more than anything, racing as a professional this year is such a dream come true. I’m willing to do whatever it takes to make the most of it.

43 days and counting till my first professional race!! Clermont ITU in Clermont, FL

One last thing…How SWEET are these new shoes? Love clearance Trisports.com!! At this price I might need to buy extra. While you’re shopping use my code ZGUINARD to get 15% off any other purchases!

Happy Friday! Don’t forget to have fun training today!