Taper Troubles
Wait, so tapering isn’t for trying new things and attempting to cross everything off your months-long to-do list?
This week I’ve been throwing all of my energy into everything that’s been nagging me. One more closet clean out? Oh yes. Finally making granola bars? Why not? Riding my bike to work? So fun!
There is a downside. It turns out that tapering is for resting, both mentally and physically, and I’ve been doing a pretty terrible job at both. Cycling to work doesn’t sound like a big deal, but my tendency to go all out and try to keep up with the cars leaves my legs shaky… not rested. Stressing myself out about not getting all of the crazy things on my list done is counterproductive to going into the race relaxed and ready.
After not really understanding how I should be tapering and putting all of my excess energy into everything but resting, I think I’m finally starting to figure it out. Instead of running around trying to clean every inch of my house, I’ve been reading. I put away the list, and I decided that once the race is over I would prioritize a few things on it and finally make them happen. I’ve been eating well, reducing my sugar intake, and being really careful with my diet so I don’t go into the weekend with an irritated stomach.
I’ve struggled with really tapering this time around more so than in the past, and I think it has to do with my nerves about the race. I’m excited and nervous and overwhelmed and feeling totally ready and feeling not ready at all. This is the first time I have a real goal in mind, and I’m planning on giving it everything I have to get it. Which leaves me constantly thinking about what I have to do to get there and the what ifs of 13.1 miles.
But I have two more days to keep doing the right things. More reading and napping. More putting my feet up. More laughing. Less thinking.
