Overall Performance:
Hey Craig! First off, let me just say—congrats on finishing in the top 25% overall and top 26% in your age group at the London Hyrox! That's no small feat. Your overall time of 01:16:32 is impressive, especially with a total running time of 00:38:06, which is a solid 00:25 faster than average. This indicates that you’ve got a runner’s profile, and it’s definitely working in your favor!
However, looking at your pacing, it seems you might have started a bit slower on your first run segment (00:05:43, which is 01:29 slower than average), possibly throwing off your rhythm. Remember, the first segment sets the tone for the rest of the race. While you picked it up nicely in subsequent running segments, there’s a potential to optimize that initial burst, especially since you’ve got the speed in your legs!
Overall, you've got a good foundation, but it's clear that there are some areas, particularly strength-based exercises, where you can improve. Let's dive into those segments that need a little TLC, shall we?
Segments to Improve:
- Sandbag Lunges (00:05:04): This segment was your biggest time sink, being 00:38 slower than average. Focus on building strength and endurance in your legs. Practice forward and reverse lunges with a sandbag to mimic race conditions. Try to increase your volume gradually. Aim for 3-4 sets of 10-15 repetitions, ensuring you maintain a strong core and straight posture. Incorporate tempo work by slowing down the eccentric phase (lowering) to build strength.
- Sled Pull (00:04:43): At 00:22 slower than average, this is another area to focus on. Incorporate sled pulls into your training, focusing on proper form. Use lighter weights to perfect your technique before progressing to heavier loads. Consider doing 4-6 sets of 40m pulls, emphasizing explosive starts and maintaining a strong posture. Pair this with some resistance band work for your shoulders and back to enhance your pulling power.
- Burpees Broad Jump (00:04:28): This was only 00:03 faster than average, but it could be a bit smoother. Practice transitioning quickly between the burpee and the jump. Set up a drill where you perform 10 burpees, followed immediately by a broad jump. Aim for 3-4 rounds of this, focusing on maintaining a quick pace and minimizing rest between sets. This will help condition your body to move fluidly between these two movements.
Race Strategies:
- Pacing: Start with a strong, but controlled pace on your first run. Aim for a time closer to your average to avoid burning out early. Remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint! (Unless you’re running away from a bear, then sprinting is acceptable.)
- Transitions: Your Roxzone was 00:59 slower than average. Focus on your transitions between exercises. Set up mock transitions in training to simulate race conditions. Time yourself to see how quickly you can move from one exercise to the next. Aim to shave off those seconds by preparing your equipment ahead of time and practicing quick changes.
- Strength Maintenance: Since you’re faster at running, it's crucial to maintain your strength throughout the race. Incorporate strength endurance training into your weekly routine. This means lower weights but higher repetitions, simulating race conditions.
Conclusion:
Craig, remember that improvement is a journey, not a destination. Each race is an opportunity to refine your strategy and technique. Embrace the process, and keep pushing yourself—“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”
Keep up the grit, and don’t be afraid to embrace the suck. Every second spent on the course is a testament to your hard work and dedication. Now, go out there and crush those weaknesses! You’ve got this! 💪💥
Stay strong, stay motivated, and remember, the only bad workout is the one you didn’t do. Keep pushing your limits, and let’s get ready for the next challenge! I’m here for you, always cheering you on—The Rox-Coach.