I’ve decided to enter an Olympic distance race. The problem is, it’s a week after a local sprint that I like. Would anyone think that would have an adverse effect a week later? I tend to think not, however, I have always spaced them at least two weeks apart.
Should be good. You know what they say - racing IS the best training!
Years ago we would race almost every weekend from May to Sept. and just train easy mid-week. I had great success with this sort of program.
If your fitness level is reasonable and your recovery habits good this is not an issue. The sprint race will likely serve as a good rehearsal/speed workout for your Oly distance event.
The key here is going to be proactive, effective recovery techniques. Spring for a good massage after the event. Rehydrate adequately. Do a recovery ride and swim. Be proactive about managing your recovery.
Good luck!
Fleckster…what do you mean ‘years ago’? If I make it to Collingwood tomorrow (and survive it) I will have done 12 races in 12 weekends. And I still have another 8 plus a relay on my schedule. There are even weekends where, if you can get to them in time, you can do two back to back.
Sorry, I should have said " My, years ago" because, that was a long time ago!
Best wishes in Collingwood.
Probably depends upon how fit you are. If the sprint takes a lot out of you, then it might affect your performance in the Olympic event.
your years ago…snicker…guffaw…chortle…whatever man. You could still lace 'em up and kick ass tomorrow if you needed to and we both know it. Amazing the retraint you show in not doing so. It was being injured a full year and having to sit on the sidelines that lit the fuse for me again. Thanks for the Collingwood thumbs up…now if only they could get my truck fixed anytime soon…
Shoot, yeah! There are some coaches that prescribe a very hard workout 4-8 days before an event to actually make you perform better! A sprint before an Olympic would be perfect in my book. Just make sure you do all you can to recover as fast as possible, and to recover fully. Shouldn’t be a problem for someone that is properly trained for the Olympic distance event.