Overall Performance:
Christiane Crabtree, you had a solid performance at the 2024 Manchester event, ranking in the top 5% of all athletes and in your age group. This is a commendable achievement, especially given the competitive nature of the event. However, there are areas for improvement that can help you to ascend to even higher ranks.
Your total running time was slower than average, suggesting that you could benefit from additional running training. Despite starting faster than average in the first running segment, you slowed down in the subsequent segments. It appears that you may have started off too fast, leading to fatigue in the later stages. This is something to consider in future races, as pacing yourself more evenly may improve your overall time.
Conversely, your performance in strength-based exercises such as the Ski Erg, Sled Push, and Sled Pull was faster than average, suggesting a strength-oriented profile. This is a significant advantage, and optimizing your running performance could see you rise further in the rankings.
Segments to Improve:
- Running: Given your overall slower running time, focusing on improving your endurance and pacing could lead to significant improvements. Incorporate longer, slow-paced runs in your training to build your aerobic base. Interval training, such as sprinting for short durations followed by rest, can also improve your pace. It's crucial to start running segments at a steady pace and gradually increase your speed to conserve energy for the later stages.
- Burpees Broad Jump: As this was a slower segment for you, incorporating more plyometric exercises, such as box jumps and jumping lunges, could help improve your explosive power and speed. Also, practice the burpees broad jump movement itself to improve your technique and efficiency.
- Wall Balls: Work on your lower body strength and endurance with exercises such as squats, lunges, and leg presses. Practicing the wall ball exercise specifically will also be beneficial. Remember to use your legs more than your arms to generate power and avoid fatigue.
- Sandbag Lunges: Incorporating more weighted lunge variations in your training can help you improve in this area. Also, consider improving your grip strength to better handle the sandbag.
Race Strategies:
Understanding your strengths and weaknesses can help you devise effective race strategies. As a strength-oriented athlete, consider conserving your energy during running segments to perform optimally in strength-based exercises. However, don't overly slow down your running pace as it's a significant portion of the race. Instead, aim for a steady, sustainable speed.
Practice transitioning between different exercises to reduce your roxzone time. This includes both physical transitions, such as changing equipment, and mental transitions, such as preparing yourself for the next exercise.
Finally, remember that hydration and nutrition are key. Ensure you are well-hydrated and have consumed adequate nutrition before the race. During the race, take advantage of hydration and nutrition stations to maintain your energy levels.