Simulation runs are a great way to practice how it will be race day. Whether it be running hills at a similar elevation and grade or running on the same track where you are racing. Know your course and train for it. I ran one simulation run for the Pikes Peak Ascent Marathon last week. An 8-miler between 11,000 and 14,000 feet up and down Grays and Torreys Peaks. I felt I did not do well. But after reading blogs of Pikes Peak Ascent racers from years past who are in the middle to end of pack runners finishing at sub 6 hours, I am more confident that the pace I set will get me to the finish at sub 4 hours and 30 minutes, which is respectable. With oxygen levels at 43% less at 14,000 feet than at sea level, which for me is about 18% less since I live at 8,800 feet, which is roughly 25% less than sea level, I need to power hike and run at above my highest average training altitude, which is 9,300 feet. This is one inhibiting factor that I have not focused enough time and effort on with my training for Pikes Peak. So, tomorrow, I am planning on power hiking/running between 12,830 feet to 14,200 feet at Summit Lake to Mt. Evans Peak. This will be a nice practice for the last three miles of Pikes Peak Ascent, which will be 2,000 vertical gain at 12,000 feet to 14,000 plus feet. This is my last effort to acclimate my body to above 9,300 feet before the big day on Saturday, August 17, 2013.
Posted on: Fri, 09 Aug 2013 18:06:19 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015