And just like that Ironman California is over. While the race might be done for Kelly, I am sure the memories of the experience will live on. Before I dive in to the race recap, I just want to tell you all how proud I am of this guy. While I’ve documented a good bit of his training for you, there is so much more that he both balances and battles with to be able to train and ultimately cross the finish line at IM California.

This week is all about staying healthy, getting plenty of rest, and fueling well leading into race weekend. Fitness isn’t gained during race week; our goal with workouts is to keep the body sharp and ready to roll come Sunday.

Once completing the Base Phase of training (laying the foundation), we moved on to the Build Phase (specificity). Since Kelly had time leading into Ironman California, were able to hang out in the Build Phase for several weeks. In the first block of Build Phase, Kelly completed the Big Day. This was his first real race simulation set. This set us up to get even more specific for the second round of Build Phase work.

The Big Day is designed to simulate race day. This means that the athlete will give up an entire day to training. Not only will they swim, bike, and run, but they will be forced to have recovery periods and dial in nutrition. If they get any of it wrong, they’ll know by the end of the day.