A theory for practice

I enjoyed a fantastic Thai lunch today with G-Man and Eric, and naturally the conversation centered on training, racing, and all things fitness. The food was, as always, fantastic. Only rivaled by the company! At some point I proposed a concept to these fine gents that seemed to pique some interest in both, and I would like to share that.

Tuesday was a weight training day for me. I decided to do a back workout, mainly out of progression through muscle groups. Two days later, Thursday, was a swim; my first in a couple of weeks. The plan was to simply swim for 30 minutes, maintain a constant pace and 65%-70% effort, and concentrate on my efficiency and style. What I realized, vividly, was the musculature impact the swimming and weight training had. I was acutely aware of what muscles in my back and triceps I was using, and something occurred to me for training.

During the off-season, or maybe a phase of training where one may want to get back to basics, I think it's highly beneficial to perform weight training on the general muscle groups that you intend to train in performance activities 1-2 days later. Not an intense weight session that will leave you immobile in those areas for days, but one that stresses you and leaves a bit of soreness and fatigue. For example: multiple back exercises (seated row, lat pull down, upright row, etc) prior to swimming, full leg exercises (leg press, leg curl, extensions, and dead lift) prior to running or cycling, etc. If the weight training is balanced, you should experience the precise areas that the performance activity (running, cycling, swimming, tennis, etc) is stressing, and subsequently where your weaknesses may exist. This is mostly a concept for me, personally, and I haven't yet researched if it's practiced by others. I just wanted to pass it along to others that may not practice it and are searching for their weaknesses.

In other news and events: I wish Wes and J-Mom well in their events this weekend. Go tear it up, y'all! And to the veterans, I hope you remember your good friends and good experience this Veteran's Day. We understand each other, and I appreciate each and every one of you warriors!