Accomplishing goals is not easy. Learning from failure is key. Reflection is but another important piece of the puzzle. This blog entry is written in the name of failure for half marathon training. In this post, I will analyze why I went wrong, what went well, and the ugliest part of all: why I failed. Before delving into specifics, first let me outline the goal itself.
What was the Goal?
Simply put, the goal was to train for a half marathon, which would lower my resting heart rate to 49 Beats Per Minute. It was to be trained with my beloved. Lowering a heart rate means consistent practise must be at play. We have not been consistent due to some health concerns, and inconsistency on my part.
Why did I Fail?
Failure stems from 4 reasons:
1) Air quality in Shenzhen is not the best, my lungs started to feel pain after a few days of running.
2) My beloved is having tendon issues in her left foot and ankle area; therefore, she is not able to run. Running causes pain in the ankle.
3) Consistency was difficult to maintain, especially with all the other commitments we have outside of work. My major focus is communication, and that’s why I am writing on a frequent basis.
4) Number 3 above is not trying to convey the “I’m too busy” excuse. I struggled with motivation, and being consistent. A routine did not even take off before it crashed into a sizzling failure, that reeked of sweaty socks locked in a jogger’s running shoe.
5) Overall, I lack knowledge and research about training for a half marathon. Running with the proper form is probably important, but notice my lack of certainty in my prose? it is because I truly don’t know enough about what I am doing. I don’t even know if training for a marathon is the best way to reduce my heart rate. In fact, I barley understand the health benefits of having a lower heart rate. More research is required.
What worked with this goal?
Using this blog to track the progress of this goal is a witty idea. You can see my progress here, and here.
Tackling a goal with a partner in crime is also another positive that will be replicated in the future.
Having a fitness watch, even if it’s crappy (read my review of this device here) was also another great way to track progression. I would almost go to say having a fitness watch is essential (huh? What do I know? I only jogged 3 times in my life, ha)!