Just when you thought that they
couldn’t possibly be any more space left for mud to attach itself to your body, another mud
pie flies at your face from the spikes of the guy you are trying to overtake...
Yes, Cross-Country (XC) season is
upon us. This is my maiden season of XC and I thought I’d put together a few
tips that have helped me through the quagmire (literally) over the past few
weeks.
1. Yes,
you need spikes
The number of times I’ve spoken with runners after races
who’ve confessed to being like Bambi on ice through most of the course as they
weren’t wearing spikes. A decent pair of spikes are worth their weight in gold,
and are often a lot cheaper than other running shoes. Don’t put it off, get to the shop today...and
buy 15mm spikes. They look lethal but you’ll thank me for it. On a related
note...
2. Look
after your spikes
Yes it’s a
ball-ache, but clean your spikes after a race with stiff brush and water to
remove all the excess crud and then pack the insides with newspaper and leave
under a radiator for a few days. You get nice clean, dry, shiny shoes for every
race and they will last longer than if you throw them in a kit bag only to
emerge festering a week later.
3. Every
race is different
Don’t worry if you have an absolute nightmare in your first
race (I did!). Every course is different and will have different changes. Some
are better for flat runners, some are better for mountain goats. But over the
course of a season you’re bound to find at least one you really like...and
added motivation to conquer the others next year!
4. Believe
in your team
We don’t often get the chance to compete in team
competitions. Everyone is there to look out for each other and make sure your
club gets the higher placings. If you see someone trying to be ninja and
overtake a club mate, warn them. Work together on the course to push each other
on as all will benefit.
5. When
the going gets tough, dig in
XC can feel
very different to road racing as the ground will sap the energy from your legs.
Just remember, its doing the same to everyone else. Don’t give them the
advantage by letting them pull away. Use
your spikes to get on your toes and dig in, you’ll be amazed at the difference
it can make. There’s always a point on the last lap where everyone things “Will
this never end!” so power on through it and go for glory.
6. Starting
Position is important
If you’re looking for a final placing in the top half of
the field, don’t start too far back out of politeness Get Stuck in. Those in
front of you will probably be going slower and will just become more obstacles
to get round, making it harder to get that all important ticket with a low
number on at the finish.
7. Enjoy
it!
Yes it’s
tough, but every time you race you will be making yourself an better runner,
and those spring/summer goals will be that bit more achievable. Thing about how
much of a strength workout you are gaining and pushing your VO2Max to new
highs.
Hope this helps - good luck in
your racing and remember to race strong. XC is the shining example of
#GoHardOrGoHome!
No comments:
Post a Comment