Postpartum training, week 8 (Mefjellet opp!)

July 14 - 20

For context, see Postpartum training - intro  

On top of the world after Mefjellet Opp - my first race postpartum

Goals

• Survive the last week of (mostly) solo parenting two kids
• Complete the Norwegian uphill championships - Mefjellet Opp - with style. I don't necessarily feel in shape to do the 7 km and 1100 meter of vert course at max, so I wanted to run a smart race and finish strong.

Highlights

Saturday I race Mefjellet Opp, which was the Norwegian uphill championship. At 8 weeks postpartum, it's pretty early to be racing, but uphill races are relatively gentle on the joints and I wanted to challenge myself. Besides, we were going to be in the area for vacation so it seemed like a good opportunity to stand on a start line.

Enjoying the downhill after racing Mefjellet Opp - what a view!

I watched my heart rate like a hawk for the first three-quarters of the race and stayed within what I knew was reasonable, before really letting myself go on the final trail section. It was a hot day and the organizers had set up two extra aid stations for a total of four, so I decided to forgo carrying any fluids. I stopped at every aid station and drank one cup of water, and threw another over my head to stay cool. I also took one gel at the 30 minute mark. I was able to cover the 1100 meters of vert in 1:07. I figure in my best shape I would be closer to 1 hour, so this isn't terrible. I also felt grateful just to be there doing it as this isn't a given. 

Lowlights

This was another week of trying to cram in training around watching 2 kids, getting in some workouts early in the morning or late in the evening. There isn't much relaxing during the day when you're rolling with a 3 year old.

Despite the conservative race at Mefjellet Opp, I was very tired on Sunday. I listened to my body (and the AlbonApp which told me I had reached my desired range for running impact and cardio for the week!) and took a full rest day.

Training summary

Running: 3h25min / 27.2 km

Two runs + the race

Hiking: 1h42min / 4.4 km

One family hike up Geitfjellet, very slow, carrying my youngest daughter

A welcome break during our family hike - it's been hot (for Norway) these days

Cycling: 2h19min / 39.5 km 

One morning mountain bike ride (the trails are so dry!) and a road ride with some gravel thrown in.

Gravel ride in the heat with the husband

Strength: 45min (1 session)

Did bodyweight / babyweight work as it simple wasn't feasible to go to the gym this week

Babyweight single-legged squats

Yoga: 45min (2 sessions)

One recovery focused and one more core focused.