is this thing on?

It's time to get this thing fired up again! The new year is coming up and with that comes new plans, new goals and new training schedules... I love that feeling. I feel a great year coming on. Recovery from the Twin Cities Marathon went very well and I have successfully moved into a new training schedule with adequate time off - not too much, not too little, perfect! I feel that is the key. I am prone to burnout and need to always be on the alert and make sure I avoid that. I have learned that what is most important is a balance. Making sure I get enough of an "off-season" without just letting it all go and having to start from scratch. I have incorporated some fun running, basically no pace goals, no watch, just out running for fun. I have added in a few shorter bike sessions to get those bike legs back under me and mixed it up with these on the trainer. I can honestly say right now, I enjoy the trainer rides. I'm not promising I will keep this attitude up the entire winter, but hey, I'll go with it. As far as swimming I am still enjoying the masters and have kept up a solid 2 per week swim schedule. Also, a big goal I have had for this off-season period is the strength training. I have done a weekly session with Darcy and have jotted down lots of strength workouts to use throughout training. I have also done my core work religiously with a med ball and even some weights at the club. At this point, I am feeling great. I am confident, right on track, feeling in shape but wanting more. I am ready to turn the calendar page and embark on a fun and rewarding 2010! Happy New Year!