I’ve mentioned in recent posts that my training schedule right now is completely different than what I normally do as I prepare for my RKC in 2.5 weeks. (Seriously…how did it get here so fast?) I have been doing my three longer/harder training sessions on Friday, Saturday and Sunday since those are the three days I’ll be training at the RKC. In addition, I work on swings Tuesday and practice my snatch test Wednesday. Monday and Thursday are my rest or active recovery days.
Here’s why this schedule is difficult for me:
- Not only is it tough to train hard three days in a row, but it’s challenging to train the same exercises (for the most part) three days in a row.
- I have to get up early on both mornings of the weekend while my husband and son are still sleeping. Otherwise I can’t guarantee I’ll get my workout done because my husband has been working Saturday and Sunday and my son has been fighting naps.
- I like starting the work week on the right note with a training session on Monday morning and currently that’s my rest day.
- Speaking of the work week, by Friday/Saturday I am mentally spent lately after working full time and making sure everything is good to go with our new gym. (Adult group classes starting in a week!)
- My nutrition is not as consistent on the weekends. I am usually running around all weekend so I’m out of my normal breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner routine. Weekends also include going out to dinner one night and usually some wine.
I have always thought about taking my rest day(s) during the week instead of on the weekends because I usually have a little more time on the weekends when I’m not trying to get out the door to daycare and work. After this program, I know that it’s not he best idea because rest days on the weekend are key for me, mentally and physically. I generally like to do a fun workout on Saturday morning and then take the rest of the weekend off. This was me after training Friday, Saturday and Sunday this weekend.
Although this training schedule is not easy for me, most things that are great are not easy and training for the RKC has been a great learning experience. I’m learning that being consistent with training really does lead to awesome strength gains. I’m learning that I can adapt to different training programs and schedules when I have to in order to achieve a goal. I’m learning that it’s a lot easier to say no to a second glass of wine when you have to get up at 5:30am and train hard. And, most importantly, I’m learning that getting strong and training for something as challenging as the RKC takes a lot of hard work, dedication and sacrifice.
I’m proud of myself for committing to this (especially during this crazy time in my life) and preparing the best way I know how (with the help of my awesome coach). For the next two weeks my goal is to stay healthy and stay strong. I’m almost there.
What are your favorite days/times to train? Are you a weekend warrior or do you like to get most of your training done during the week?
Thanks for your excellent posts Amanda. Reading them is giving me inspiration as I train for RKC 🙂
I can agree that when I have a goal to acheive or a plan to follow, training is easier than if I’m just training on my own.
I’m looking forward to reading more about your RKC experience 🙂
Thanks Sharon. I like having a plan, but I have to admit it’s going to be REALLY nice not to be stressed about working out or being able to do something specific with a specific weight. 🙂 I’m actually really looking forward to training on my own just to train!
Hope your training is going well! You are going to rock the RKC.
I love having Friday as my rest day. It doesn’t always work that way, but I always try to take either Thurs or Fri. I feel like I have more time on the weekends to get in my workouts. But I think it’s so individual – gotta do what works best for you and your schedule.
I could see liking Friday as a rest day too. I’m usually worn out by then. I think it’s all about preference and what works best with your body and your schedule. Just like some people like to work out in the evening and some people prefer to get it done in the morning!
I like starting a Monday with a workout too! Right now, I am doing two barre n9ne classes at night, so I am not running int he AM, and while sleeping in this AM felt great, part of me wished I was running 😉 Adjusting to a new workout routine is hard, especially when you are training for something! but it looks like your combo fits you well right now and you are ALMOST THERE! I can’t wait to hear how you do. So bad ass 😉
Sleep is so good. I just feel wrong not working out on Monday morning. I always have! It is hard adjusting to a new routine, but boy am I getting used to new routines in general since being a mommy!
Wow. That IS an intense training schedule — but I totally see the logic behind training this way for the big certification. You might as well train like you’ll need to be on that day, right? You gotta be dying to get through it all though by now, I bet — that’s how I tend to feel towards the end of race training, a little beat up, a little worn out, but very strong and ready for the big day! You’re going to do GREAT!!
Funny…I was thinking about how it’s a little bit similar to training for a marathon (even though so different at the same time). I was wondering if you runners get tired of training at the end. I absolutely love training and love kettlebells, but I’ll be happy once there is less pressure and I can do some variety and just work out for fun! 🙂